Here, Dora talks about her experience of being a volunteer at East Kent Mencap, where she is not only a member of the Executive Committee but also the fundraising team.
I have been a part of East Kent Mencap since 2008. Previously, I was a member of Thanet Independent Ladies Society (TILS), who donate a few thousand pounds a year to a local charity. To chose a cause, TILS ask representatives from local charities to make a presentation at a dinner evening. I was so impressed with their fundraiser, Jane, that I asked if I could become a volunteer.
I had been considering volunteering since I retired but wasn’t sure which organisation to choose. My father’s brother had Downs Syndrome, so East Kent Mencap became a very obvious choice for me. I am a member of the Executive Committee and work closely with the fundraising team, organising events such as our annual fun days, variety shows and pantomimes.
East Kent Mencap makes a real difference to the lives of people with a learning disability and it’s a pleasure to be part of it. I can recall lots of special moments. Our second fun day- the first to be held at Ursuline College in Westgate – was very special, the weather was ideal and so many people attended the event. The Jubilee concert at the Sarah Thorne Theatre was also special; I cried during the closing performance!
