Gerry came to ReStore through our partnership with the Cedar Foundation. He saw it as a way to push himself out of his comfort zone, and interact with people on a day-to-day basis. Read about his ReStore experience below.
Why did you sign up to volunteer in ReStore?I came to ReStore through the Cedar foundation, and was quite worried about coming into a new environment. It was an intimidating thought and I was quite anxious. However, this feeling was quickly dismissed when I came into the store and began to meet the staff and my fellow volunteers.
For around 6 months now.
I enjoy filling out the shelves and pricing stock. I also like to use the till and interact with the customers.
I haven’t been in a retail environment for a while, so ReStore is re-teaching me skills I have forgotten, including how to interact with customers and engage with them.
How nice and welcoming everyone has been. As I’ve said, I was intimidated by the thought of going into a place where I didn’t know anyone, but everyone has been so kind and we always have a laugh.
Just getting to have every day contact with customers and the daily interactions I am a part of here in ReStore. It’s a great experience.
The manager, Isobel, has been so gentle and understanding about my condition. There are things I am not able to do, but she has been so great at pushing me out of my comfort zone.
It’s important that after retirement, people are still offered the opportunity to use their skills and be treated as individuals. Not enough people know about ReStore and the volunteering opportunity it provides, and it would be perfect for anyone who just wants to give a few hours a week to make a difference.
