On the 1st of July, Caraway’s volunteers made the most of the warm and sunny weather and gathered at the Portswood Residents’ Gardens Pavilion for an afternoon of tea and refreshments, with live music from guitarist Jonathan providing a relaxing backdrop.
The event served as a celebration of the time and effort put in by our volunteers all across Southampton, without whom Caraway’s outreach and impact would not exist!
Although it was too hot for the planned croquet and cricket, our volunteers were content to chat all afternoon. It was such a special occasion to hear people sharing their work and experiences with not only well-known colleagues but also like-minded volunteers from across the city, all dedicated to the elderly people and carers they work with. To hear stories about the support being extended through our Memory Cafes and Carers’ Course was so encouraging, and an affirming reminder of the value of our volunteers’ efforts.
Dave Hendra and Ros Simpson, both Trustees, also spoke. Dave delivered a heartening message from the Bible while Ros gave some encouraging charity updates – the most tangible of which was a cheque for £215! This came from the Care Home company Walfinch, whom we thank so much for their generosity and support.
The afternoon closed with each volunteer receiving a small gift as a token of our thanks; we are endlessly grateful for their selfless perseverance, and their Jesus-like offering of time and care for some of the most vulnerable members of our communities. Well done for all your hard work – know that you are all appreciated!
If you would like to donate to Caraway’s work, the link can be found here: https://www.caraway.uk.com/donate/
