Poppyscotland needs you! Scotland’s leading Armed Forces charity is searching for volunteers to help fundraise in Edinburgh for this year’s Scottish Poppy Appeal.
Poppyscotland Head of Fundraising Gordon Michie explains: “We’re looking for individuals, groups of friends, or community organisations to step forward help with this year’s Appeal in Edinburgh. Last year, we had a very successful fundraising effort, but, without your help, we will struggle to emulate that.
“By volunteering for Poppyscotland you will be helping us transform the lives of Scottish veterans, those currently serving, and their families who are in need. The money raised from the annual Poppy Appeal enables us to provide life-changing support to those affected by many issues including poverty, mental health problems and disability. Our volunteers are at the heart of everything we do, and, without their vital support, we simply wouldn’t be able to run the Scottish Poppy Appeal.”
Mr Michie added: “Volunteering with us also offers some great benefits for you, too; our volunteers gain a real sense of achievement, immense pride and satisfaction by doing something worthwhile. It’s also a great opportunity to meet new people and have fun while giving something back, so, if this sounds like something for you, please do get in touch.”
Just across the Forth, one of Poppyscotland’s newest recruits is proving to be a natural in the role of Area Organiser, the person who oversees the team of volunteers in their area. Lynne McKay – whose husband Tommy spent 22 years in the Army, serving with 1 SCOTS in Iraq, Afghanistan and Northern Ireland – moved to Kinross last year and became the Area Organiser for the Kinross and Milnathort area.
Lynne, 41, explained: “When we moved to the area I saw the advert for a new Area Organiser in the local newsletter. I was disappointed that no-one had taken the role on, so I got in touch with Poppyscotland and here I am!”
Lynne, who has seen the amount collected in her area soar from around £1,000 to £4,500k, has some positive advice to anyone thinking about becoming a volunteer for Poppyscotland: “Just do it – no thought needed! You’ll be amazed by the support you receive. If people say ‘no’ then move on; there is always someone else or a different direction to go in. The businesses and public are lovely and I’d encourage anyone to get out there and meet them.”
Volunteers form a 10,000-strong team covering every city, town and village in Scotland. They help the charity to pin more than five million poppies on to Scotland’s coats, jackets and jumpers. The Scottish Poppy Appeal raised more than £3 million last year thanks to the support of the public and the dedication of our volunteers.
For more information or to chat about this great opportunity, please contact Sine Ward, Poppy Appeal Organiser East at Poppyscotland, on 0131 550 1552 or 07835 328 186, or e-mail at volunteer@poppyscotland.org.uk.
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