Tina is one of our current volunteers – even going so far as to abseil down a Cathedral to raise money to help end homelessness! She gets much pleasure from volunteering – but her work for Whitechapel comes from pain.
Tina explains, “My youngest daughter Claudia volunteered at the Whitechapel Centre during a very difficult time in her life. She absolutely loved helping others and found her colleagues to be friendly, non-judgemental and supportive.”
Sadly, Claudia passed away four years ago, at the age of 25. Tina adds, “The Whitechapel Centre supported me and my family through the darkest of times.
“I love doing my bit” “Later that year, I felt it was time for me to lend a hand – Claudia would have wanted me to, I’m certain of that. And I have to say I love doing my little bit in the donations centre – it’s a chance to meet some fabulous people, learn more about the homelessness situation in Liverpool, and help others so less fortunate than myself.
"When there came an opportunity out of the blue for me to do an abseil how could I resist? My intense fear of heights (in particular, open heights) wasn’t going to stop me, was it? I felt that Claudia was willing me on to do it and of course it was a way to raise much needed funds for the Whitechapel Centre.
"I admit I was terrified. However, the staff on the day were so reassuring and looked after me all the way (well until I stepped out over the edge that is!) Once I was out there on my own, I absolutely loved it – I can honestly say I faced my fears and beat them. The feeling of being strapped in tight and being able to descend from such a height with the most wonderful view of our great city in front of me was truly exhilarating. “Since joining the team of volunteers, I have made some lifelong friends, met people from all walks of life, and seen for myself how generous the community of Liverpool and Merseyside truly is. When I witness what some people do and the time they give up freely to help this incredible charity, it makes me feel very humble and grateful for what and who I have in my life. Volunteering for the Whitechapel has brought me joy and some great laughs along the way, and I hope to continue volunteering for them for many years to come.”
