At Endsleigh, we have always tried to support local charities through our corporate volunteering days. We approached the friendly team at James Hopkins Trust as we know the amazing work they carry out in the local community and how they support Gloucestershire children and their families. We received the available dates and events where we could help and were available for the Summer Fete.
The first time we volunteered was at the Summer Fete. When we arrived, we had a warm welcome from all the staff, volunteers, and families. We helped set up the tables and ran a nick-nack stall and were amazed by the amount and quality of donations they receive from other local organisations. Despite an early down poor of rain, the day was a great success! Lots of money was raised for this incredible Charity with a great turn out. The entire day was extremely rewarding as the James Hopkins Community were all so lovely and we did not stop smiling the entire day!
In November, we visited again to help tidy the garden as the autumn leaves fell. Again, we had a warm welcome and were provided with teas and coffees in a room which we could also use for our lunch break. The garden and building at James Hopkins trust truly is amazing and offers so much variety for children and their families, and we were happy to help tidy so it could be used to its full advantage.
We were provided with all the necessary tools to tidy up, to rake, sweep and do some general gardening. Typically, we also had a bit of rain on this day as well, so we took a break from gardening and helped wrap some presents from Santa for the Christmas event. The staff were so grateful as it was another job ticked off the list, and we have fun at the same time!
Both times we have visited, we have been well looked after by the whole team and always received a warm welcome. This is always followed throughout the day, including being offered drinks, making sure we are all OK, have all necessary tools and that we are having fun. Each time we have visited we have left with smiles on our faces and have been proud to support such an amazing local Charity.
Thank you to James Hopkins for the amazing work they carry out and thank you for allowing us to get involved and support the Charity!
Kelly Bundy, Bethany Hambling & Georgie Leyshon
