Volunteers Week is celebrated  between the 3rd and the 9th of June this year. It is a week in which the UK celebrates volunteers and says thank you to them for the contribution that they make.

Sustainable Crediton is a volunteer-led organisation with 17 active or planned projects delivered almost exclusively by our network of over 100 regular volunteers and many more participants over the course of every year. From the Green Fair in September and the Seed Share in February, and to the Community Larder 5 days a week, volunteers are reducing waste, increasing sustainability and contributing to the vibrancy of our Town Centre via community not just commerce. Core group and the Trustees want to use Volunteers Week to THANK all of our volunteers. You are the inspiring heart of sustainability in our community.

We also INVITE expressions of interest in volunteering either in an existing project, or in the instigating of a new one. Core group meet monthly to deal with organisation business and welcome guests to share ideas about possible new projects. Currently the Sustainabubble team, the repair cafe team, and the textile group are all warmly welcoming new volunteers. A Library of things/scrapstore initiative and a cycling initiative are also seeking expressions of interest from others before committing to extensive new activity.

Ever wondered what it's like to Volunteer?  You may have met Graham who sells 2nd hand bicycles in the square from time to time. But he also helps with the Woodland Team. 

What inspired you to start volunteering?

I am interested in cycles and so it was a small step to link up with Sustainable Crediton,which has been campaigning for cycle use for a long time, and for the crucial cycle-path between Crediton and Exeter.

What do you find most rewarding?

Working with a group of people who have similar values, and who care about the community around them.

What impact does it have on the community?

Over the years Sustainable Crediton has initiated a whole range of projects, from thosewhich are food, plant and land-based to those involved with crafts and making. I joined the Woodland Management group because I like working with trees (as well as bikes!), and we go coppicing in the woods on an organic farm. The work takes place in the winter, so it gets you out alongside other people at a time of year when it might beeasier just to sit indoors.

What advice would you give someone considering volunteering for the first time?

Volunteering will get you out of the house, and meeting new people. You will always get guidance on what to do, and no one will ask you to do anything you feel is outside your range. Listen to friends, and think about the kind of organisation for which you feel sympathy, or with which you might engage with enthusiasm. Your time is your own- just try a little to start with and see if you want or are able to offer more.

How can someone get in touch?

Contact us through the website www.sustainablecrediton.org.uk