My name is Deirdre McGuckin and I live in Ardboe. I started volunteering a number of years ago with my local community group, in Ardboe, where we provided activities for children. I really enjoyed this as I wasn’t originally from Ardboe and it was an opportunity to meet new people. Also in addition, my own children benefitted from the different activities that were on.
In more recent times I have started volunteering as an office assistant in Cookstown Volunteer Office, working with Joanne. I started there in October 2014, and work one day a week in the office. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here and have got to know the work of the volunteer office and am amazed at the number of volunteer opportunities that are available to people. I haven’t worked in a few years myself so it’s great to get back into the office and get some up to date experience. I have been doing computer work, answering phones and updating files, and meeting different people who frequent the office. In a previous job I had been in contact with the volunteer office with regards to getting police checks done for volunteers, so it’s great now to put a name to the place. Anyone who has free time and wants to volunteer in whatever field, I would advise them to do so, it’s enjoyable and rewarding and you have some fun too!!! Many thanks to Joanne in Cookstown office for her time and patience with me, there’s a great welcome in Cookstown volunteer office, and it’s a happy place to be.