How to Help - Become a Volunteer

Giving time is as important as giving money
Have you a few hours a day or a week you could offer us? There are so many ways that you can help us - we are looking for volunteers in the following areas:

Corporate volunteers
Develop your team-building skills in a specially tailored project. For example, we need help with creation of a gazebo for wedding photos, with building some giant chairs, and with cutting out and painting ply animals.

Individual Volunteers

Rainbow Gallery: art and craft centre where you could try your hand at arts & crafts & assist our service users in developing their creative interests.

Rainbow Plant Nursery: if you have green fingers

The Gift Shop: if you like meeting people. It is a busy environment from Easter till September

The Granary Restaurant: for catering and hospitality

Poulton Wood: if you are the outdoor type & interested in the environment.

Harrington College: (French. IT, Music)

Special Events: such as classic car rally, Halloween Fright Nights, the Hythe Venetian Festival, Christmas family days

Fundraising: if you like meeting people & are tenacious, persuasive & imaginative

What some of our volunteers have to say...

Gerry Hillier had always wanted to work with pigs and the opportunity came when his wife spotted an advertisement calling for volunteers at the Rare Breeds Centre. Since coming here Gerry has worked on a succession of involving projects, most recently ending up cultivating a hop garden. Gerry values the trust placed in him by the Rare Breeds Centre staff, who allow him the freedom he needs to do an excellent job. Working here is made all the more satisfying by the great team spirit and Gerry would recommend volunteering to anyone as, "It's a worthy cause because volunteers contribute to the success of the trust".
	Jeff F started volunteering with one of the residents when he heard that he needed help using power tools. I can honestly say that volunteering has been one of the best things I have ever done. If you have any spare time why not think of helping a resident fulfil their dreams.
	The Pincott Family started volunteering as a family two years ago. Our roles are fulfilling and we all feel proud that we are supporting a great charity with hands on help. In today's busy world it's a great way of spending quality time together as a family and having fun at the same time.
Benedict - Volunteering for the fundraising department has enabled me to learn about a different area of the community sector which I know will look good on my CV. I also like the flexibility to come in to the office when I can.

Are you the difference that can make a difference? Do please call, or come and see us, and find out more about this amazing organisation.

FAQS

Do I need any particular skills or experience?
Not at all. We'll do our best to tailor your volunteering to suit your interests and provide you with all the training and support you'll need.

How much time do I have to give?
The great thing about volunteering for the Trust is its flexibility. Some of our volunteers give us one day a year while others one or even two days a week. Whatever time you can spare, we will be happy to have you as part of our team.

What's in it for me?
Volunteering is fun, interesting and worthwhile. You get the chance to make new friends and work alongside some wonderful people. You may learn some new skills and it's a great chance to enhance your CV.
We pay volunteers' travel costs (maximum of £8 per day) and, after qualifying period, offer you a family pass to the Rare Breeds Farm

Where can I volunteer?
A variety of places in Kent, the Rare Breeds itself and in the local community

How does it work?
If you'd like to give volunteering a try, we can organise a no-obligation 'taster session' in the area of your interest , and then we'll go from there

What do I do next?
If you would like more information, please call Rita Mathur, Corporate & Volunteer Manager on 01233 861519 (direct line) or email: rm@c-o-t.org.uk