Jim first came to Volunteer Centre Moray in December 2007, not long after he retired, hoping to make use of his free time. He wanted to feel useful and do some volunteering that would benefit his community at the same time. 

Volunteering with a number of organisations, to say Jim was a busy man would be an understatement. Jim volunteers with the Air Training Corp based in Elgin as a volunteer Padre where he offers young cadets support and someone to talk to. 

Jim also volunteers with Walk Moray,  a new project set up by the NHS. Walk Moray seems to have taken Moray by storm and Jim volunteers as a Walk Leader with a Lossiemouth group. 

Riding for the Disabled is another group Jim commits his time to as a leader. He may not be an active horse rider but he says there is no greater sense of need than assisting the young riders as they get up onto the horse and ride around the grounds. Seeing them enjoy themselves is what matters the most.

When the schools return in the Autumn, Jim is looking forward to volunteering with a school in Lossiemouth, helping with the children’s cycling proficiency and raise awareness of cycle safety. 

Finally, Jim is hoping to become an area representative for the Open Doors initiative which happens annually through his church.  

When asked if volunteering has benefitted him, Jim cheerily replied that it was very helpful as it kept him  from getting under his wife’s feet! “Volunteering gives me a great sense of fulfilment, that’s why I enjoy it as much as I do! I would definitely recommend volunteering to anyone and everyone!”