Volunteers Story
Trish and Lois have been volunteers at the Howick Historical Village since the beginning of 2008, and they join the staff every Tuesday morning.
Trish originally decided to apply to the Village as a volunteer after a visit to the museum one Live Day. She looked at the graves in the little churchyard, and thought they looked sorely in need of some tender loving care. She then filled in an application form, and after an interview, was enrolled as a volunteer.
Lois was also familiar with the Historical Village, and when she saw a pamphlet calling for volunteers, she put up her hand, because she felt it was a good cause and a healthy use of her spare time.
Both Lois and Trish decided that they would give a half day every week, and during that time they have turned their hand to a wide variety of tasks. In the summer, they garden enthusiastically, starting early and finishing as the day gets hotter. In winter, or if it rains, they work inside the cottages, providing the polish and elbow grease that makes the rooms look lived in and cared for.
"I enjoy the company, because everyone here is so friendly, and grateful for the assistance. It makes you feel really useful," says Trish of her time here in the Village. "It is rewarding to tidy up a garden bed, or to shine up a house and make it look loved."
Before starting at the Village, the two women did not know each other, but now they are good friends. They enjoy working together, and find they get a lot more done that way. They have appreciated the friendly atmosphere and the fact that they can make a difference with the help they give. The graves in the little churchyard now look neat and well cared for.
"It’s fun to come here,"says Lois."We sit and chat to staff and other volunteers at morning tea, and after becoming regulars, we are now exchanging recipes!"
