“The benefits I have gained from the charity are the friends. I’ve been humbled to meet so many amazing people.”
Fleet mechanic James Howarth began supporting GNAAS by donating money and clothing, but after hearing about a lack of volunteers in Kendal (his hometown), he offered his help.
It’s now been ten years since he signed up as a volunteer and he’s even recruited his eight-year-old son Harry to help out on occasion.
To mark the tenth anniversary of his volunteering journey, we recently caught up with James to find out more about his role within the charity.
Why did you start volunteering for GNAAS?
I had some spare weekends so me and my wife Samantha decided we wanted to get involved with a local charity.
We decided on GNAAS because it was a familiar sight in the Lake District and after hearing more about what was involved in pre-hospital emergency care it was evident how vital this service was in a rural area like Cumbria.
Since joining, I now see how needed the service is across the whole of Northern England.
Could you explain what activities you’ve been involved in over the years as a volunteer?
I’ve mainly been involved in events, stalls at county shows, car shows etc and bucket collections at local supermarkets.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering?
Being able to inform the public about this fantastic charity, it still amazes me how many people think this is a government funded service.
Everyone we talk to is always so friendly and grateful for what the crews do, it is an honour to represent them.
Could you summarise your general thoughts on GNAAS?
Pride, when I see them going over, when I read an article on Facebook, when I see a collection tin in a shop. All these things and more make me proud to represent them and the magnificent work they carry out.
Do you have any particular highlights during your ten years volunteering at GNAAS?
I’ve had many highlights over the years, working alongside our late great Bruce was always entertaining so that’s definitely up there.
I would also say the volunteer celebration days, when every year many of the volunteers from across the region meet up and get to catch up and hear how our help aids the charity in their mission.
Why should other people volunteer?
GNAAS is a charity that receives no government funding and they can’t continue to fly without the local communities. We need to help people understand this and volunteers provide that voice.
You can sign up to do a one-off event or more frequently with a wide range of opportunities available.
You get to meet fantastic people, attend amazing events and have fun.
You don’t have to have the passion, that comes afterwards from meeting people who are still here thanks to the charity.
I would also say the volunteer celebration days, when every year many of the volunteers from across the region meet up and get to catch up and hear how our help aids the charity in their mission.
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