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Whether it’s on the floor, at the counter or behind-the-scenes, volunteers at Warkworth’s second-hand stores, selflessly dedicate their time and energy without ever asking for anything in return – apart from first dibs on an item that’s just come in, of course.
Shelly Freestone has only been volunteering at Tinkled Pink for around two months, working on Thursday mornings and filling in when needed, but already finds her role satisfying and meaningful.
Shelly says after working in corporate environments “it’s such a nice place to be involved with”.
“I’ve taken a year off work and it’s quite refreshing to come in here and be so accepted. You feel appreciated and needed, which is quite important. You wish that all workplaces were the same.”
Shelly has been an avid op shopper since she was a child and knew Tinkled Pink “very well” before she saw them advertise for a volunteer.
“I thought this is the perfect time for me to get my foot in the door and give back to the community.”
Shelly says she vacuums, makes sales and puts out stock.
“There’s a lot of different people that come in here so I chat to them, ask what their interests are, and if they’re looking for anything in particular.”
She says it’s very similar to retail work.
“But unlike retail, we’re fundraising for a good cause – for Harbour Hospice. You’re not here to make profit for a company, you’re actually contributing to people’s end-of-life care.
“Whatever people pay goes directly to hospice. So not only are they getting something valuable for themselves, they know the money they’re spending is going somewhere good as well. So it’s a win-win.
She adds that stores like Tickled Pink also help the environment because items that would otherwise end up in landfill can be recycled and sold.
Shelly hopes that volunteering is going to be a long-term commitment for her.
“I want to continue giving back, helping out in whatever way I can and doing something purposeful in the community.”
