WHAT BEING A VOLUNTEER MEANS TO ME

When I was asked this question, I realised I hadn’t thought about it in any depth, about WHY I had become a volunteer, YES, I could answer that.

When a young friend was diagnosed with cancer she found there was little or no support to help her, in our little corner of Spain. Her initial idea was to make contact with fellow sufferers and their carers, those who may be in the same situation; this led to the foundation of the MACS Charity. I, and my husband, hoped that we may be able to be supportive in whatever small capacity that may be; that was 5 years ago and we have never regretted that decision.

So, what does being a Volunteer mean to me? Without wanting to sound ‘gushy’ I reflected that it helps me experience ‘THE FEEL GOOD FACTOR’, more than I would expect to feel normally in everyday life, along with a sense of achievement and satisfaction – to be doing something so worthwhile during my retirement life here in Spain.

Whilst talking about my ego and self-esteem, I thought “hang on a minute, shouldn’t I be the HELPER, not considering how I am being HELPED”!!! The fact is, in whatever way you support MACS, you will feel more fulfilled as an individual through your role as a Volunteer.

MACS need Volunteers in a variety of capacities:-

  • To work in the Charity Shops
  • To train as HELPLINE phone holders
  • Drivers
  • Buddies
  • Translators
  • Helping with the Fund-raising ideas and events

The list is never ending!

As Volunteers, all of us come from different walks of life, with different experiences to draw from, differing talents and abilities – which is exactly what MACS needs to provide the variety of skills required to offer support and to befriend anyone suffering from cancer, or their carer, who comes to MACS for support.

As a Volunteer you will make new friendships, enjoy new activities and even enrich your social life, if you wish to. At the same time you can’t fail to be rewarded as you feel you are unselfishly involved in giving something towards the benefit of others. Ordinary people, just like ourselves, but who may be going through a very difficult journey since the onset of their cancer diagnosis.

MACS is committed towards achieving the best possible services and facilities for patients suffering with cancer, and their carers. Plans are in hand for expanding resources and facilities in the near future; all due to the hard work of our Founder and members, as well as Sponsors, Volunteers and Fundraisers, also supporters from a variety of contributions.

Could you find it within yourself to give a little of your precious time and help to support MACS?

If so, ring the General Enquiries line on 634 329 334 or call the HELPLINE on 634 565 555, or alternatively pop into one of the Charity shops in Turre, Albox, Mojacar, Las Buganvillas or Huercal Overa.

MACS IS VALUABLE

YOU COULD BE ‘INVALUABLE’ AS A VOLUNTEER

PLEASE COME AND JOIN THE TEAM YOU WON’T REGRET IT!!

(F.Cook – Volunteer. Jan 2013)

BELOW YOU CAN READ A FEW MORE OF THE RESPONSES FROM SOME OF OUR PRESENT VOLUNTEERS, WHEN ASKED THE QUESTION OF WHAT BEING A VOLUNTEER MEANS TO THEM:-

  • I just wanted to say that I feel by working in the Turre shop I feel I am making a small contribution towards the held and support people need. The disease is so devastating and leaves people in such a terrible position. I hope we do make some small difference to them. Sue Hockley (5/2/2013)
  • When my husband was diagnosed in 2004 there was no support for ex-pats facing Cancer, so when Elaine started MACS we were very relieved to know we were not alone in our fight. Keith, my husband, lost his fight in 2012 but I continue to help MACS in whatever way I can – they can only support people if they get support themselves. For me it is a way of paying them back for the help they gave us for the past 5 years and if what I do helps someone then that is enough for me to carry on. Anita Oakes (01/03/2013)

  • For more than 5 years now I have raised funds for MACS on a personal basis. I am now thrilled to be part of the Fundraising Team for Mojacar. The team have a monthly meeting to discuss up and coming events being organised, and to discuss what volunteers are needed for that specific event. We have 11 volunteers in our team and all contribute ideas to raise funds for this worthy cause. Apart from the fact that all the volunteers for MACS work as a great team, from the shops to administration, for many it has created a great social scene, attending all the events and meetings. MACS volunteers are very dedicated and the proof, as they say, is in the pudding. From its infancy the Group founded in July 2007, by our President, Elaine Brown, with coffee mornings, is now in its sixth year and has 3 charity shops and a drop-in centre, all due to the dedication and team work of the volunteers and support of the community. I can’t express the satisfaction you get, knowing you are part of such a dedicated team of people, working together to help support MACS support the Community; volunteering for just a couple of hours per week can make such a difference to those in need. Julie Justice (26/4/2013)