Friends of the Earth Birmingham Action Briefing Oct 98/Nov 98

Warehouse News

It's going to be a different place at the Warehouse now our Bev's gone, but she's happy and moving on, and so too are we.

This building has been relying on volunteers like her since the beginning of our occupation, we have had two fires and countless other emergencies, but we're still here, thanks to them. Without volunteers, we can't campaign effectively and we can't look after the building, which requires constant maintenance.

Well, hello, we still need you. Sure, we have a Manager and a core group of volunteers keeping Birmingham Friends of the Earth alive who do a fine job, but we currently have so many jobs that need doing. I am aware that it is a problem getting volunteers in contemporary Britain, not just for us, but for other organisations too. Some people, who have time to volunteer, are under the impression that their skills aren't suited to an organisation like ours. I'd like to correct them; there isn't one skill we can't use (maybe not belly dancing, although a noble art, I'm sure... sorry). Painting, decorating, answering written enquires, reception, file management, fund-raising, DIY, carpentry, administration, designing (stalls), talking, writing, proof reading, I could go on, but I'm sure you get it by now.

If you have time, we can use you, more importantly, we need you. It's good experience for those who need it (we'll provide you with a reference should you need one), and it's a great place to work. So please, give me a call.

Andy O'Callaghan