Manx Blind Welfare Society is looking for more volunteers to help out at The VIP Store.
The Society’s shop in Strand Street, Douglas, opened late last year and has proved a great success, so successful in fact that it is now hoped more people will come forward to help out.
Manx Blind Welfare Society’s Office Manager Kerry Macduffie, who is co-ordinating the shop project, said: ‘The VIP Store has been very busy since opening in November and we are indebted the volunteers and members of Society staff who have given their time to support it.
‘However, we could always do with more help, so we’re asking anyone who could volunteer in our shop to get in touch. Even if you only have a little time to spare each week, just a few hours could make all the difference.
‘The aim of the shop is to support the Society’s work with blind and visually impaired people here in the Isle of Man with a sustainable source of income. Spending just a few hours of your time at The VIP Store means you will be directly contributing to helping us continue to deliver the free services and support that many people rely on.’
There are a range of volunteering opportunities including serving at the till, putting out stock, sorting through donations and transporting items to the shop from the Society’s headquarters, Corrin Court in Onchan. Volunteers are also needed to pick up clothing donations from collection points at Onchan Commissions and in Onchan Park.
You don’t need any experience as full training will be given, but it would be helpful if you can work independently or with limited supervision.
Kerry added: ‘As we approach the summer holidays, school, college and university students may like to consider volunteering during the break. They will gain valuable work experience in a retail setting, as well as the reward of supporting the Society’s vital work. Volunteering for a charity can also be very helpful on university applications and CVs when they go on to apply for jobs.’
To find out more call 674727 or visit The VIP Store in Strand Street, Douglas.
The VIP Store sells good quality pre-owned clothes, books, ornaments and small items of furniture. The name was chosen as VIP not only means Very Important Person, but is also shorthand used for Visually Impaired Person.
To find out more about the work of MBWS visit www.mbws.org.im.
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