Volunteers

As you may imagine, the physical side of arranging the room beforehand is difficult for members of the group.  We are most fortunate indeed to have the outstanding help and support of a number of hand-picked volunteers.

John has been with us from the beginning, as his wife is one of the regular members.  He is our stalwart aide de camp.  He sets up the tables and has the equipment and materials out usually before we get there, then is on hand to help make the refreshments.  He's also a dab hand at photography, and we're lucky enough to have some of his pictures from which to paint - truly awe inspiring!  He's just taken up picture framing too, which may well come in handy for those of you who would like to have their projects suitably framed.

Ali is a local lady who has become invaluable to the group in no time at all.  Her happy demeanour, and listening ear are so welcome to members of NB.  She's also really great at getting stuck in with whatever art project we're working on, and has recently provided us with some of her fabulous sewing skills in the form of brush holders.

Matt has also joined us from the VCB and while he battles with his own health issues, has been another very welcome member to the team of volunteers.  His own passion is oil painting, and so he often offers his own insightful view of how to correct, improve or move forward a piece of art work that has become a little ... difficult.  His experience with art has recently led to him exhibiting a piece of his own work at a prestigious show, and he's now planning to hold a larger exhibition of several of his pieces (Matt's currently involved with a project of his own, so unavailable to the group, but plans to return in the new academic year).

Cyril is a painter and decorator at the moment, so we share him with his day job (although he's officially retired!).  His sparky humour, and ever-helpful can-do attitude are very much appreciated.  He works quietly (at times!) but always with good humour and cheeky banter which really lifts us when we're feeling down.  His wife is a really good artist and this is something he'd love to do himself, so when time allows, he has a dabble and has surprised himself with his accomplishments.

 

While we do have marvellous volunteers - not all at the same time - we would expect you to bring your own carer/helper if your needs are great.  This is because we cannot always guarantee who or how many of the volunteers will be present each week, and also for your own safety and peace of mind.  Someone you know will be more attuned to your needs, for example.  We do try to do as much as we can for ourselves, and don't leave everything to our merry band of volunteers!