Meet our volunteers - James
Our Volunteering Champions are regular volunteers who are collectively responsible for the practical work of caring for the wood and running the charity’s day-to-day and behind-the-scenes activities and are the essential work force of Andover Trees United.
Volunteering Champions, form the Management Team and meet fortnightly with Trustees to manage and plan workdays and events. Here we introduce you to James Blyth who is our Youth Organisations Coordinator & also a member of the Communications Team;
When did you first get involved with Andover Trees United?
I first got involved in 2013 when I worked for Valley Leisure who at the time we're running the National Citizen Service programme (NCS) in Andover. NCS offered the opportunity to 16 years old to Plan and deliver a social action project to benefit their community. ATU were one of our partners, and one of our NCS team actually designed and built a small outdoor classroom in Harmony woods.
What sort of work do you do for the charity?
I get involved in all sorts! During the summer months I often lead activities at Harmony woods for Girl Guiding and scouting groups such as orienteering and bushcraft. I am member of the management team, and therefore contribute to decision making within the charity, and over the past 6 months I have been leading a work stream considering the charity fundraising strategy.
What do you gain from volunteering with Andover Trees United?
Harmony woods is such a special place; I love being up there on a summer’s evening leading activities and seeing people enjoy the space. I enjoy the company of the the other volunteers of ATU who are a wonderful, and creative group of people. Finally the mission of the charity, for every primary school child to name 6 trees and 6 flowers, is inspiring, and so relevant to the challenges of our time.
What would you say to someone who was considering volunteering?
I'd say come along to a Saturday workday at Harmony woods and bring your friends and family. Our regular workday blog gives you a good idea of what we get up to.
If you would like more of an introduction to the Wood; what grows and lives there, then check out the Nature In Harmony events running at the moment and over the summer. Our Nature In Harmony: Native Tree Walk takes place this Saturday 22nd May from 11am-1pm.
Are you feeling inspired by James’ story? If you would like to get involved with taking care of the woods or help with the running of the charity we would love to hear from you - volunteers@andovertrees.org.uk