Debbie  – Volunteer and Events Co-Ordinator

Wow, where do I start? My first full time job when I left school at 17 was as a receptionist but throughout the years I worked my way up the ladder through various roles from receptionist through to Team Secretary, Executive Secretary and then as a PA my last role I was as an Office Administrator for a Digital Signage Company. I was there for 7 years.

My greatest achievements - in October 2009 I embarked on a huge challenge which I raised money for Parkinson's Disease; this is because my mum was diagnosed with it a year previously.  The challenge was an 80km Trek over the Great Wall of China - 5 days walking and camping out with a large group of people who I didn't know, but how we all ended up helping each other through the days we didn't think we could finish it... The comradery was epic! It was eye opening and a massive challenge but once I crossed the finish line the sense of achievement and how proud I was of myself to complete it with a nasty knee injury which I did whilst out in China! 

My second is the birth of my daughter in January 2013, I didn't think this was ever going to happen to me but she is the most precious thing in the world to me. I'm such a proud mummy. I also have 2 kitty kat fur babies Mabel & Frankie. Love them to bits, they keep me on my toes that's for sure!

January 16th 2024 my life took a completely unexpected turn with a life changing experience that I never saw coming, and which took me into a deep downward spiral. Luckily I found Open Mind Meaning Support, who are the most amazing volunteering group, to help people who are struggling complete a walk in the community every Wednesday. I have been going every Wednesday (well 99%)  since the awful day in 2024, and without them and the support they have given me I think my life may have ended up being so very different! This is also where I met Elaine from Reach Community Projects. I knew my next job had to be rewarding and I wanted to give something back. A job as a Volunteer and Events Coordinator at REACH came up and I just knew I had to apply for the role! Luckily for me I got the job and I can't think of a better place to work with the amazing work that Reach Community Projects do for the local community. I am so lucky to work with an amazing team who do so much for everyone.