Volunteer Testimonials
Why did you get involved here?
I used to ride competitively as a child, but had to stop when my bike was stolen. I started then being curious as to how I could get parts and adapt bikes. I did engineering at college, covering a range of areas both mechanical and electrical and built my own bike 10 years ago. I came to Community Recycle Cycles, initially as a place to volunteer and help and to gain skills. I really like the ethos of the shop, helping people and somewhere you can get a real bargain.
Your best friend wants to volunteer at Community Recycle Cycles. What would you say to them?
I would tell my friend that it helps to build your confidence.- Stuart
Why did you get involved here?
I got involved because I wanted to do something very rewarding and fulfilling with my time.
Your best friend wants to volunteer at Community Recycle Cycles. What would you say to them?
It allows the participant to engage with people with different needs, in the community.- John
Why did you get involved here?
I wanted to learn how to repair my own bike and be part of a community and help others.
Your best friend wants to volunteer at Community Recycle Cycles. What would you say to them?
It is a good place to engage with people and learn new skills.Stephen1. I had a good basic knowledge of bike repairs which I wanted to develop more.2. It’s a neutral environment, a safe haven. We just go with the flow.- Andrew
Why did you get involved here?
I came to CRC as part of a volunteer initiative via the job centre via CVS. I have been unemployed for a few years & I had a couple of strokes which meant that I found it difficult to get regular paid work. I find the people I work with very friendly & supportive.
Your best friend wants to volunteer at Community Recycle Cycles. What would you say to them?
I would encourage my friends to volunteer as it is a safe, inclusive & friendly place to come to.- Jo
Why did you get involved here?
I had donated 2 bikes and liked the idea of the project. Also, I wanted to improve my knowledge of bike mechanics.
Your best friend wants to volunteer at Community Recycle Cycles. What would you say to them?
Go ahead! It’s a good opportunity to socialise, learn about fixing bikes and it’s a good thing to work with a charity.- Ian
Why did you get involved here?
I wanted to learn about bike repairs as my bike is my only form of transport.
Your best friend wants to volunteer at Community Recycle Cycles. What would you say to them?
Come and volunteer, it’s like a big family. People support you through learning and fun.- Jon S
Self-confessed bike mad Benji has accumulated a fabulous 4 years of voluntary work with CRC. His primary role is ensuring that our bikes are thoroughly cleaned before being offered for sale. His wish after lockdown was to come back fulltime to Community Recycle Cycles because, quite simply, we’re like family- Benji–thank you for being such a valuable part of our team and for your incredible commitment to CRC and our customers.
Our young-at-heart elder statesman Dave W is always eager to share his encyclopaedic knowledge of all things bike related which he’s gathered from 60+ years of owning J E Williams’ and Son bike shop in Edleston Road. Always keen to go that extra mile to help others, be they fellow mechanics or customers, Dave is a fabulous addition to the CRC family. Thank you, Dave, for being so generous with your time and expertise. We really to appreciate all that you do
We are delighted to introduce you to Tom who joined us as part of his Duke of Edinburgh Award and stayed, having clocked up 3 years of volunteering so far. A while ago, we recognised we needed to do something with the growing pile of second-hand bike wheels. Tom grabbed this opportunity with both hands and has grown a small but thriving trade in reclaimed bike wheels, not just for bikes but also for garden features. Tom–we salute your entrepreneurial talents and thank you for your dedication to CRC
Marc initially joined us after he called in to get a wheel repaired and enjoyed meeting the others so much, he stayed on as a volunteer. Working part time at Sainsbury’s, he had an ambition to join the Fire Service so started work as a volunteer Fire Officer, a young man with much drive and determination. These attributes made him a valuable member of the Community Recycle Cycles team but also helped him realise his dream. Forgive us if we boast a bit, but Marc won a coveted place as an apprentice with the Fire Service, one of 12places from 1,000 applicants. We lost him for a while whilst he completed his apprenticeship, but now he is working as a full-time firefighter we are delighted to welcome him back in the workshop when his shifts allow. Thank you, Marc for everything you do as a fire fighter and for the time you dedicate to Community Recycle Cycles.
VOLUNTEERING
We are a small friendly organisation that offers volunteers a great experience in a retail and workshop environment. There are a wide range of opportunities but all volunteers have the chance to complete a portfolio of evidence demonstrating what they have learnt, new skills they have acquired and they can take part in an interview. This is particularly important for our younger volunteers or those who are currently looking for employment.
Volunteering Roles:
Business Admin
- Work with Directors to provide admin/accounts support.
- Implement admin processes to ensure invoicing, ordering and accounts are managed effectively.
- General admin tasks to ensure the smooth running of the business.
Cycle Mechanic
- Assess customers’ bicycles and donated bicycles to identify faults and repairs needed.
- Carry out bicycle repairs and upgrades as necessary.
- Assist in costing jobs and stock management.
- Maintain a safe and clean working environment.
Marketing/Social Media and Public Relations
- Work with Directors to support the creation and implementation of a marketing strategy for the business.
- Support event management.
- Support marketing activities and PR.
- Support liaison with local businesses.
- Using Social Media to support the development of the business and it’s aims.
Retail and Customer Service
- Meet and greet customers.
- Complete work record cards and receipts.
- Answer telephone calls and make calls as necessary.
- Display stock and maintain the appearance of the shop.
Youth Work
- Running/assisting with “Bike Club” for children aged 8-13 providing a range of activities that are designed around bicycles, cycling and road safety.
- Assisting with training the young people who complete work experience in the business (non-mechanical training).
- Develop activities for children in the local area.
If you are interested please contact us here
