Mary and Claire’s story

A Shop Built on Community: Claire and Mary’s Story 

For 17 years, the Holmer Green shop has been at the heart of its local community.  

Claire, the shop manager, has been there since the very beginning. She proudly talks about the volunteers who have supported the shop from day one, affectionately known as the “OGs”. Some of the customers, too, have been shopping there just as long, creating a rare sense of continuity and loyalty that has helped the shop thrive for nearly two decades. 

Once the charity’s flagship store, the shop has evolved over the years, its success still depends on something constant: a strong, committed volunteer team. Today, Claire manages around 43 volunteers, many giving two shifts a week. Each person brings their own strengths, from books and art to eBay, fashion, and even professional window dressing.  

Claire says, “All of this, is invaluable to the smooth running and success of the shop. Quite simply, we couldn’t do it without our volunteers.”  

Among this remarkable team is Mary, someone Claire describes as a “particular star”. 

Mary’s connection to the charity goes back to 1988. After returning from living in the USA, she started fundraising through her local church for Iain Rennie Hospice at Home, one of the founding charities that is now Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care, before continuing as a street collector. When the Holmer Green shop opened in 2009, Mary didn’t hesitate, she immediately offered her time and has been there ever since. 

Every Saturday morning, from 9am to 1pm, Mary works on the till. She rarely misses a week. Over the years, she has adapted as the shop moved from simple tills to increasingly high‑tech systems, learning new skills along the way. What hasn’t changed is her warmth. 

“I enjoy meeting and chatting to customers,” Mary says. “The shop has such a friendly atmosphere.” 

That friendliness extends beyond the shop floor. Volunteers form genuine friendships, often going on outings or holidays together. For many, volunteering is not just about giving time, it’s about making a real difference. 

Mary also understands the charity’s impact on a personal level. Like many volunteers, she has seen how vital the care is for patients and families. That knowledge, combined with her kindness and reliability, makes her an anchor for the shop team. 

Claire puts it simply:
“Mary’s loyalty to the charity is phenomenal. She’s kind, thoughtful, and always puts others before herself. I really don’t know what I would do without her.”  

The shop exists because people like Mary choose to give their time, and in return, they gain connection, purpose, new skills, and friendships. It’s a partnership that benefits everyone: the charity, the community, and the volunteers themselves.  

As Mary says to anyone thinking about volunteering:
“If you can, give it a go!”