I first got involved with the Benevolent Society of Blues around 10 years ago. As a member of the grants and loans committee I am one of several committee members who help and assist with the applications and awards.

Volunteering for this role is incredibly important as it enables the BSB to carry out its objectives and offer essential help to Blues, Old Blues and their dependents.
So, what are the benefits of volunteering?

Seeing how the BSB can assist and make a real difference to the lives of pupils or families in need is one of the greatest rewards.

Of course, applications for the BSB’s support are incredibly wide-ranging and not all applications can be decided in a committee meeting and therefore sometimes the best option is to arrange a visit. Going to meet a potential beneficiary and listening has been extremely rewarding as a volunteer with the BSB. For the beneficiary, we have either been able to put a case for further funding to be made available or assist in other ways that were not immediately evident. In other cases, just a signpost has enabled them to approach other organisations that can provide more focused or specialist support.

Volunteering is a two-way street: Dedicating your time as a volunteer helps you make new friends, new experiences and give back through a constructive and worthwhile cause. I have had the opportunity of working alongside other Old Blues with many different interests and backgrounds which is equally rewarding and interesting.

The current challenge is to improve the communication with more recent Old Blues so that the society can ensure it is well placed to serve Old Blues well into the future.

Guy Wilkes
Grants and Loans Committee

Become a committee member

If you are interested in joining the BSB committee, please contact us using the form below and we’ll be in touch.