Joanna Stroud

Volunteering is not a choice it’s a responsibility

I have been volunteering for Girlguiding for over 5 years. I started off as a parent helper at my daughters Rainbow unit and went on to become the main leader with Rainbows and assistant leader at Brownies.
When I saw the retail team at Hautbois were recruiting, I just knew I had to apply. I was thrilled to be given the opportunity to work for Girlguiding, although my fiance said, working in the shop does not mean I’m allowed to buy any extra badges for my camp blanket!
Being a volunteer as well as an employee of Girlguiding means I have a good knowledge of the Girlguiding programme so I can offer lots of advice to our customers as well as sharing experiences of what has/has not worked in my units and I’ve picked up some great advice and ideas from other leaders too. I get to meet and serve some wonderful customers, from girls coming in with their parents to buy their first Rainbow uniform, groups visiting the activity centre and of course the many dedicated leaders that make guiding happen.
I feel very connected to Hautbois as I am a local girl and have always lived just around the corner. I have fantastic memories of coming here as a brownie and a guide and I love to see the new generation enjoying their adventures here. I feel very lucky to work in this beautiful environment and hope to do so for a long time to come.