I have been a volunteer at Orpheus since in 2013. I had run my own business for quite a few years and when I decided to retire I needed a new challenge to fill my time. I approached the Tandridge Volunteer Centre, a wonderful organisation who told me about The Orpheus Centre. Although I live locally, I knew very little about the college but was very interested in working with young people .
On my arrival, I was thrown in the deep end as I was asked to accompany a group of students to do their weekly shop in Morrisons, this required a balance of being a friend who encouraged the students to make decisions and a surrogate mum who had to say no to massive bags of treats!
I initially started helping on the reception desk, a role which puts you at the very centre of the daily goings on, and was also involved in one classroom based session a week. I am currently helping the Butterfly Catering Company one afternoon a week; they have formed a small company to provide catering for both college and outside events, this gives the students really useful skills to take with them into the outside world.
Volunteering at Orpheus is extremely varied and takes as much or as little time as you have available, I have met hundreds of students who have inspired and entertained me, worked with many wonderful members of Staff and made great friends amongst my fellow volunteers.
Become a Volunteer
Stories like Alison’s are made possible by people who give their time, care, and support. You can be part of that too.
