Faith and Lisa’s story

Faith volunteers in the Fundraising team at Rennie Grove Peace as a Philanthropy and Partnerships Researcher. She told us about what drew her to volunteer here and why she enjoys it so much:

“When I first started volunteering for Rennie Grove Peace nearly seven years ago, it was literally a ‘match made in heaven’! I wanted to give something back to the Hospice that had cared so wonderfully well for my parents (and for me) and, at that very moment in time, they were looking for someone with professional research experience to support the Corporate Fundraising Manager. 

“Seven years later, I’m still here, working as part of a fantastic, welcoming and caring Rennie Grove Peace Fundraising team, who not only understand how to use my skills to add value to their work but also recognise how I can support them to achieve priorities, strategic planning, and deadlines. The office environment – which I missed greatly following retirement – is inclusive, positive and full of friends. 

“My current line manager, Lisa Meagher, is a joy to work with as she is fully aware of the opportunities afforded by having a volunteer researcher in Philanthropy and Partnerships. She regularly sets challenging yet achievable tasks and timescales for me – either linked to her work or to that of other team members – and always ensures she makes time to meet for a catch-up or task briefing, even if it’s over lunch. In addition, she regularly provides me with feedback which is both motivating and reassuring – it lets me know that my work is really helping to make a difference to the charity. Equally importantly, it helps me improve and adapt my approach to better suit the needs of colleagues. 

“Overall, I love my day volunteering each week at Rennie Grove Peace. I’m trusted to work independently, to use my initiative when tackling the various tasks and sourcing information, to make decisions and offer suggestions, to be adaptable and flexible. I’m conscious of the responsibility and accountability inherent in my role, even as an unpaid team member, and aim to complete each task to the best of my ability. 

“In particular, I love the buzz I get from achieving a task relating to a topic I knew nothing about at the outset! I’m learning so much about the Hospice sector, Rennie Grove Peace’s partner organisations and the world of fundraising, and am working with a wonderful organisation. Thank you – it keeps me young!”