Celebrating our Jolly Vollys
What a brilliant day we had celebrating our wonderful In Jolly Good Company volunteers, or as we fondly like to call them – our ‘Jolly Vollys’
Sarah led a lovely opening session where everyone introduced themselves and shared what volunteering means to them. There were lots of smiles as people talked about the joy of seeing guests light up during activities, the power of music and singing, and the fun of trying new things together. We also heard about the tougher moments, especially around supporting guests through decline and loss. It really showed just how caring and dedicated our volunteers are. They are the heart of In Jolly Good Company.
After that, we jumped into a round of Cadavre Exquis, a quirky collaborative drawing game. Let’s just say the results were wonderfully funny and surprisingly artistic! Then came Kate’s “Guess the Actor” challenge. We discovered we have some serious film experts among us!
Lunch was a total treat, thanks to The Friendly Food Club. They spoiled us with a delicious roasted red pepper and tomato soup with basil, cream and herby sourdough croutons, plus warm baguettes and butter. And just when we thought it couldn’t get any better, Claire brought out her Christmas-style apple crumble with custard. Pure comfort and joy on a plate.
After lunch, we enjoyed a gentle stroll in the sunshine around Wimborne St Giles village before coming back for a creative decoupage workshop with Anni. Soon, the room was full of jars and bottles turning into charming candle holders and vases, each one different and each one lovely.
We wrapped up the day with Kate’s lively Bonfire Night–themed quiz, all about the Gunpowder Plot. Fascinating facts, friendly competition and a lot of laughs.
And of course, we couldn’t finish without something sweet! We tucked into delicious slices of rich chocolate cake, washed down with tea and coffee.
Before heading home, every volunteer was given a special present donated by Lush in Poole as a small token of thanks for their invaluable support.
From all the staff and guests, thank you to our incredible Jolly Volleys. We simply couldn’t do what we do without you.
“What a wonderful day you arranged and provided for all of us Jolly Vollys! It was so varied, interesting and generally worthwhile – and of course very Jolly! Full of laughter and fun. I know I’m lucky to know most other ‘Vollys’ with my other hat on! I had some really good conversations with so many people and learnt a lot about them during the morning group session too.
Thank you to you all for making us feel part of that Jolly Family in addition to supporting us so well throughout the year. Plus, we learnt a new craft and went home with a bag of goodies!”
Clara
