Sybil Mountford has volunteered for over twelve years, mainly with the Fundraising Department and additionally does her own fundraising for the Hospice and other worthwhile causes. Sybil talks about the different ways in which she has been involved with Alice House;

“I have always been in retail and enjoy that kind of work, so it was a natural progression to fundraise after I retired. I live in Hart village so we have lots of raffles and tombolas at our village hall throughout the year.

“My daughter Jeanette is a cook in Alice House Hospice and suggested I volunteered there, which I did and have been involved in Summer, Easter and Christmas fairs, the dog show, tombolas, Trees of Remembrance, Forget Me Not appeal, baking cakes to sell and selling calendars to family and friends.

“I also organise my own sales, with items donated by family, friends and sometimes people I don’t know bring stuff to my home knowing I am involved with charity work. My house – especially during lockdown – was bursting at the seams.

“However I do not do all this on my own, I have a team of volunteers who are made up of family and friends and new people are always welcome. Also I need goods to be able to sell or raffle and I cannot express my thanks to all the people who provide in this way. Whatever I am short of, someone is always ready to help.

“I could not tell you how much I enjoy this hobby because it is my hobby and passion and l like to encourage others to try volunteering; lots of job satisfaction, making new friends and cash to help those less fortunate than us.

“Some people are shy to come forward and volunteer but they soon become more confident and find everyone they work with is friendly.

“Last but not least there are lots of people who do this kind of thing throughout Hartlepool unselfishly so I would like to take this opportunity to say a massive thank you to all the unsung heroes of our generous town…and remember if you meet someone without a smile give them one of yours.”

The Hospice’s Community Fundraiser, Janice Forbes said “We love working with Sybil, she brings smiles and laughter to wherever she works and is a wonderful ambassador for the Hospice.

“Sybil has raised over £4,500 since 2021 just through her own fundraising but the true value of her contributions is even more than this, due to the many different ways she shows her support and the various events and projects in which she is involved.

“Her fundraising and energy are non-stop and all of her hard work goes towards keeping our doors open and securing the future of Hospice care for local people.

“On behalf of everyone at the Hospice, I would like to send huge thanks to Sybil for her kindness and dedication towards helping other people.”

The Hospice needs volunteers to support across all areas including Fundraising, Retail, Catering, Admin, Clinical, Facilities and more.

To find out more about how you can make a difference like Sybil, call Hospice Reception on 01429 855529 or visit: https://alicehousehospice.co.uk/home/work-for-us/volunteer22/