Volunteering can take many forms – whether it’s in person, over the phone, or even via email. But if you’re busy, it might feel difficult to fit it in around your job and other commitments. But our community and engagement worker Anne shows us that it doesn’t have to take up a lot of time.
Anne has been a can collection volunteer for CHAS (Children’s Hospices Across Scotland), for seven years. At 60, she shares what a typical day of volunteering looks like and how she fits it seamlessly into her routine.
“I’m responsible for collecting donation cans from 16 businesses across Dundee, Angus and Fife. Before heading out, I make sure I’ve got replacement cans ready to go. That means cleaning them, adding new labels, and checking the seals from previous donations. When I go out, I take the fresh cans and a small receipt book to record each collection and swap. That’s really all I need.
I visit a wide range of places – from shoe shops and pubs to offices and restaurants. The best part is chatting to people, catching up since my last visit, and checking if their can needs emptied. If it does, I swap it over, write a receipt, and I’m on my way until the next time.
It’s usually just an hour here and there, so it doesn’t take much time at all. I work part-time, so I can easily fit it in on my days off. After collecting the cans, I take them home to count the money and prepare it for banking. Some cans can be surprisingly heavy – I had one recently that was full of coppers and came to £9.61. Other times, it is super light, but it’s full of notes – one can had £203 in it. It really varies. But every little helps. Whether it’s £9 or £200, it all adds up and makes a real difference to children at the end of their lives.
It’s so rewarding knowing that every donation is helping CHAS continue their incredible work and keep the joy alive.”
Interested in volunteering? Explore current volunteering opportunities on DVVA’s website.
