As our virtual events kick off throughout August, we look back at the very first virtual Cup of Friendship in June, which was created to celebrate Volunteers Week. We were blown away by the response and we remember it fondly, two months on. 

It was a lovely way to share a cuppa with virtual friends, tell success stories and suggest ideas for moving into the future. (Audrey had sent out Thank You packages which provided all our volunteers with a tea and biscuit, whether they could join in or not.) Working remotely, the chance to see so many friendly faces was amazing and we utilised the breakout room Zoom function fully to really get to know each other. We were thankful that so many volunteers were happy to make such insightful and varied contributions. Then, after all that hard work, we rounded off with a trivia quiz and Susan was our standout winner! 

More important than the event itself is the opportunity for our clients to give thanks for the outstanding contribution that our befrienders have made to their lives.  

'Rachel is a really nice person. She means a lot to me. I look forward to speak to her and have a conversation. She is a lovely wonderful person. She is very understanding and she listens to you. It is beautiful. It is hard to explain.' - Margaret

'My volunteer is great and exceptional. He is good with me. He teaches me Spanish, little words, which give me confidence. I am knitting things for his sister who is expecting a baby (it is a surprise). Our relationship is strong. I care for him because he is a good guy!'

'I've not only got a befriender, but now I've got a good friend. We talk about everyday life, important factors in life and also funny stories. I look forward all week to that phone call. It's the highlight of my week.' - Walter

These reflections show that the many small acts of volunteers have a huge impact on the lives of older people. They might seem small at the time but have real, positive effects that every volunteer - both at the No.1 Befriending Agency and elsewhere - can be proud of. 

We look forward to all the virtual events we will enjoy in the future.