Claire’s volunteering story

Claire has been volunteering in the Events team at Willow for 12 years. Here, Claire talks about how volunteering means she can give something back but also regain her sense of self after having two children.

“When I come into the office, I’m not someone’s mum or wife, I’m just Claire and at the end of every day, I walk out with a smile on my face, feeling uplifted.“

“I’m part of the Events team here at Willow so my days can be really varied. I’ll do anything from logging supporter’s details in our database, to researching suppliers for events, helping out at events such as Willow’s popular Golf Days or the iconic Willow Ball, and even post event wrap up.

I first came across Willow over 12 years ago. I was attending the Willow 10k in support of a friend and got chatting to Bob (Wilson, who founded Willow alongside his wife Megs). He told me all about Willow as a charity and how they help seriously ill young adults make precious memories. I was hooked and went for an interview soon after. I had a background in events and was looking for a way to keep myself busy while still being around for my two young children – it seemed like the perfect fit!

Willow is an amazing charity. From Events to Special Days, it’s a brilliant team to be part of and I feel privileged to be able to volunteer here.

By volunteering at Willow, I’m not only giving something back, but gaining something for myself. When I come into the office, I’m not someone’s mum or wife, I’m just Claire and at the end of every day, I walk out with a smile on my face, feeling uplifted.

If I came across someone who was thinking of volunteering, I’d tell them to definitely go for it. You will feel welcome and appreciated here. It’s such a fulfilling, enjoyable fun and experience. Volunteering at Willow has been the best thing I’ve ever done.”

Feeling inspired by Claire’s story? Find out more about our volunteering opportunities.