is anyone here a BHS volunteer?

[gothdolly]

Hi there
I got a questionaire from the regional BHS development officer asking, amongst other things, if I was interested in joining the volunteer database. This was actually a very timely mail shot - I was thinking recently how I would really like to get involved with the BHS in an active voluntary way. I know the BHS are working hard on various issues like road safety, welfare, awareness campaigns etc and I would like to help and do something positive rather than just complain about ragwort in other horse's fields, badly maintained bridleways etc…! Are any of you BHS volunteers? If so, could you tell me what you do, the commitment involved and anything else useful?
Like most of the rest of you, I work, have 3 ponies to exercise and look after and also a young family, so Im not exactly a lady of leisure but its something I would like to do if possible, and if I can help.

Thanks for any replies!

Cassandra

 

[OliveOyl]

Used to be, yes. Was Secretary for our County Committee for about 9 years or so?
We had committee meetings about once every 2 months, at which I took the minutes. Then arranged County events, like a pleasure ride, dressage day, alternative therapy days, that kind of thing which we were expected to help out if possible. Prob had about 4 events each year? Like most of these things you can put in as much or as little time as you have available really. Also depends how many volunteers your area already has - more hands make light work and all that!

 

[the watcher]

You could offer to help out from time to time, on fundraising or educational projects, or for fuller participation, join the county committee. They meet every couple of months or so, you could then specialise into access, welfare or any other area that interests you. The amount you participate is very much up to you.
Annual meetings will be coming up in the autumn when county committees are usually crying out for members, so you could attend a meeting as a guest and then join the committee at the annual meeting

 

[Cuffey]

Yes, do Access and Welfare
Committment is whatever you are able to manage.
You sound really busy but most Committees would be pleased to have help either with newsletters, helping organise a clinic/demo/talk, stewarding at any events etc

 

[gothdolly]

Thanks for your replies I appreciate it. I am busy but Im sure all of us are. I would like to be involved as I have found the BHS very useful in the past and don’t want to feel that Im leaving all the hard work to other people. I just sent back the questionaire with a note saying I was very interested and please contact me so hopefully the development officer will take me up on that.

Cassandra

 

[Shilasdair]

I volunteered to help out with Welfare, as local district were short of people.
I went to Stoneleigh, and did the training required, at my own expense although they did offer to reimburse my travel costs.
Tried to introduce myself to my district chairperson, who said 'Oh, I don't think I know you'. I then never heard from them again.
I find the people at the main BHS office very nice and helpful, but the regions differ depending on who the regional committee are....very cliquey.
They still send me newsletters, still saying they are looking for volunteers....
S