Volunteers are the Foundation of our charity

As part of National Volunteers week, we caught up with one of our biggest fans, Michael Oliver, who has supported the Foundation for a number of years. A retired dentist, Michael has been an ever-present on our annual International Cycle Challenge raising tens of thousands of pounds to help thousands live happier and healthier lives across the North East. But he’s also turned his hand to photography as well as running table tennis sessions for older members of the community at our home, the Beacon of Light on Stadium Park. We are currently supported by over 170 volunteers who get involved in a range of activities including packing and delivering care packages to vulnerable members of our communities; arranging fundraising events and collections; or coaching and managing grassroots football teams. Talking about his volunteering Michael said: “I just love it! The main fundraisers I’ve been involved with are the international bike ride. There’s a lot of camaraderie and a lot of people come together to raise significant amounts of money for the Foundation. “I try to help in as many ways as I can. I’ve retired, so I have a little time on my hands. I enjoy doing photography so I like to come down and help the Foundation. Anything that comes along – if I can help, I’m delighted to step in and support.” Michael is hugely proud of the Foundation and is keen to encourage anyone to get involved if they would like to lend a hand, “The Foundation is a group of wonderful people doing tremendous things in our community. They work in a marvellous facility down at the Beacon and anything you can do – any little thing – it all comes together to help so many people. “But we need hands. We need fundraising. So, anything you can do to help, big or small, can make a huge difference to people’s lives across the region. So, jump at the chance if you can come and help!”