Become a volunteer
Could you spare some time to help the Pear Tree Fund?
We are always happy to hear from people who have some time to spare and would like to volunteer at Dee’s Den or in the Pear Tree Centre.
There are plenty of opportunities available, including serving in the shop, meeting and greeting people arriving at the centre, making cups of tea, offering a listening ear or helping with maintenance or in the gardens.
If you would like to find out more, please get in touch.
Our volunteers
Meet some of the generous people who give up their time to help our charity.
Jane Parry
Jane has volunteered at the Pear Tree Centre since it opened, where she meets and greets visitors, offers a listening ear and makes cups of tea.
“I’ve always been interested in volunteering,” said Jane. “I enjoy being given the chance to give something back to the community, and helping people to feel welcome and cared about while they are facing difficult situations. A lot of people have lost loved ones during this time and have been so grateful to be given the chance to come and relax over a cup of tea. You can almost see them sigh with relief as they come through the door.
“I find being able to help people so satisfying. Listening to them and giving them the chance to offload can make a real difference. I’d definitely recommend it to others.”
Mike Hume
Mike is another of our Pear Tree Centre volunteers, who spends time with visitors as well as helping out in the garden.
He said: “I find volunteering really satisfying and rewarding. A lot of people in the later stages of life come to see us, and really appreciate the opportunity for a cup of tea, a chat and some companionship.
“There is a really friendly atmosphere at the Pear Tree Centre. We want people to know that we are here for them and that they can drop in if they need a listening ear.
“I would encourage other people with some spare time to consider volunteering. There are plenty of opportunities available and something for everyone.”
Chrissie Davenport
Chrissy has volunteered at Dee’s Den, our charity shop in Steeple End, Halesworth, for around four years. As well as serving customers, she also helps sort through donations and manage the stock room.
“I get lot from volunteering and missed it an awful lot during lockdown because of the social aspect, as I’ve made so many friends through the Pear Tree Fund,” said Chrissy.
“I enjoy everything I do at Dee’s Den, and have learnt lots of new skills like operating the till, which has helped me to grow in confidence. The team here are fantastic and really friendly, and I also get a lot from meeting the customers.
“I’d urge anyone else who is considering volunteering to go for it – you won’t look back!”
Jane Reeve
Jane volunteers at the Pear Tree Centre and Dee’s Den, and says she thoroughly enjoys her role.
She said: “It is incredibly sociable and lots of people come in to chat as well as shop, which is really important as it is vital to stay connected in a rural community.
“Volunteering gives me a real feeling of satisfaction and of giving something back. It’s very rewarding and there really is something for everyone.”
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