Name: Ruth Fergyson
Position: Head of Taste and Development
What kind of voluntary work do you do and what does it involve?
I’m a Cub Scout Leader for 1st Welwyn Cubs; it involves having loads of fun every Monday during term time. We have a programme of events I help design & run.
This can be anything from camping trips in the summer, to working with the cubs in the community and of course helping them work towards their interest badges.
The interest badges cover a wide range of topics so the programme is always varied. We always make sure we have time for games too! The children work towards being a Cub and have to learn and understand their promise and law; it’s all about being a good person, helping others and contributing to the community within which they live.
What motivates you to give up your own time?
Being part of a wider organisation that encourages children to develop lifelong skills outside of education; many of the children I come across have “grown up” in Scouting and Cubs is only part of their journey.
Working with children keeps you young at heart and I have as much (if not more) fun than they do.
I also have a training programme as a Cub Scout Leader so I get support from the organisation. Training takes place over a number of years so I too can grow and develop my leadership skills.
What would you say to someone who is considering volunteering for a good cause?
Do it – it’s worth it just for the feel good factor and in addition you meet so many new people, make great friends and become part of the community.
What’s the best experience you’ve had whilst volunteering?
There are so many to mention; last week we amazed the Cubs and made “real” volcanoes; using vinegar with Bicarbonate of Soda.
Taking the Cubs to sing carols for our local residential home, we did 12 days of Christmas with actions and put smiles on the resident’s faces.
Being shown how to make a real campfire without the use of matches!!
We were so inspired by our team members and their dedication to volunteering we're introducing you to two team members this month. Meet Paul who tells us about his volunteering for Young Carers.
Do you know someone like Ruth and Paul? If so, tell us about them and you could win them a weekend break for two or a £50 voucher for Crew Clothing.
This month we are asking you to tell us about someone you know who you think deserves to be treated.
First prize is a fantastic mini break for two courtesy of Welsh Rarebits, Hotels of Distinction , who are providing our lucky winner with a two day break including Dinner, Bed and Breakfast in Wales.
Not only that, we are also offering FIVE runners up with £50 vouchers, which have been kindly donated by Crew Clothing so you’re nominated person can treat themselves to some warm winter clothes.
To enter simply comment below and tell us about someone you think deserves to win and why.
Please take a moment to read our Terms and Conditions
THIS COMPETITION IS NOW CLOSED- WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED SHORTLY
Comments (66)
Add a commentMia - 28th Feb 2011
ReportHi, growing up i never knew my half sister Laura, however she put an add on a lost relative site and my aunty fiona found it and 20 years later we were reunited. We chat on facebook everyday and the reason i think she deserves this is up until finding her i felt alone in the world. I have OCD and spent years struggling. Anyways after many chats i found amazingly we had more in common then i thought, she too has my condition. Not only that but she has an online blog were she has been the support of many other ocd sufferers and made many more people not afraid of their condition anymore. Ocd isn't just about cleaning , it can be mental and very upsetting. She loves her animals too, i have never known someone more caring, recently she lost her cat of 8 years after going into debt and shedding many tears trying to make her better. She really is a truly wonderful person , who i now can't live without. Please consider my talented amazing sister for this wonderful treat.
Ann from Halifax - 27th Feb 2011
ReportI would like to nominate my mum as she has always been there for me especially since I got ill with fibromyalgia 12 years ago and helps me with practical things as well as more importantly being there for a chat when the pain gets too much.A break would really do her a lot of good.
Rach - 27th Feb 2011
ReportI am nominating my sister Jenny. She spends time volunteering as a local homeless shelter and throughout the year raises money for a mission in Sudan. Last year she spent time in Sudan before the referendum needs assessing ready for this years fundraising campaignes - a radio mast. She is a dedicated, determined character believing that anyth is possible. It would be brilliant if she won this great prize!
Geoff - 26th Feb 2011
ReportI PUT FORWARD MY WIFE SUE WHO HAS LOOKED AFTER ME FOR 13 MONTHS AFTER I HAD BRAIN SURGERY
Lindy - 12th Feb 2011
ReportI am nominating my good friend Ian Lewis. He used to work in my team as an administrator, then when his health deteriorated, he had to leave work. However, he had remain friends, worked as a volunteer and completed a degree in complimentary therapies, despite being in chronic pain. He's thoughtful, kind and sensitive, looks after my hamster, Beyonce when I'm away and I know I can trust and rely on him always. I love him to bits and believe he really does deserve a treat.
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