Jean has been volunteering since she retired in 2008. Before that, she was an employee of Princess Alice Hospice from the very beginning, being part of the original fundraising team from 1982, working hard and raising funds to get the Hospice built. Here she tells us about her journey from employee to volunteer.

How would you describe your volunteer role in one sentence?
Working as part of a team to ensure the smooth running of an event whether it be small or large.

What was the first fundraising event you organised or were part of?
Fundraising to build the Hospice started in January 1982 and in the summer the owner of Garsons Farm offered their barn (now the fruit and vegetable section of the Farm Shop) as a venue for a BBQ and Barn Dance. Tractors and farm equipment had to be moved out and straw bales moved in for seating. Garsons have generously supported the Hospice in many ways ever since.

What has been your favourite task or event?
Over the years we have been invited to organise refreshments at gardens opened to visitors under the National Gardens Scheme. This has taken us to some fascinating places and particularly a house in Cobham that was also the home to huge aviaries, a giant tortoise, wallabies, flamingos and meerkats to name but a few of the animals. The first year we catered for 250 people and 400 turned up!

Which task/event has proved the most challenging?
I retired in March 2008 and on my birthday set off to undertake the sponsored walk of the Great Wall of China. I was joined by my younger daughter and Veronica Eagles, Chairman of the Epsom branch of the Friends of the Hospice, and her husband and son. We trained solidly for the three months beforehand and lost count of how many times we had climbed the steps at Box Hill. However, it all paid off and we had an amazing time.

What’s the most interesting thing about volunteering over the years?
It has been great to see how loyal our volunteers have been over the years and how many have helped for forty years. The whole organisation has become so much more professional and has moved with the times and the differing needs of our patients and their families.

What do you think other people would be surprised to know about volunteering?
I think people would be amazed to know how many people volunteer on a regular basis each week and how the Hospice depends on them for so many services.

What skills do you need to do your role?
All fundraisers need to be able to think on their feet because you never know what is going to be thrown at you at any time. You need to be adaptable and should definitely never lose your sense of humour.

Who have you learned the most from at Princess Alice Hospice
Probably other volunteers because they bring a wealth of experience from their own careers and interests.

What advice would you to give anyone thinking about volunteering?
Definitely give it a go. Offer to do something you will enjoy and which will use your own particular skills. Do you prefer working with people or would you be happier behind the scenes? There are so many aspects to the Hospice organisation, there is bound to be a need you could fulfil. You will make new friends and find satisfaction in helping – even if you think it is only in a small way – which will make a great difference.