Meet Your New Cat-Loving, Canal-Boat-Cruising Volunteer Coordinator!
As we celebrate Volunteers’ Week (2-8 June 2025), it feels like the perfect time to say a big hello and introduce our new Volunteer Coordinator, Maddy, who wants to shine a big bright dazzling light on the incredible individuals who give their time to support others – whether you’re making regular commitments or helping out where you can, the difference you make is enormous!
A bit about Maddy…
Maddy has spent much of her career working with charities and non-profits in a variety of roles. Many of those jobs have involved working closely with volunteers which is something she has always found incredibly rewarding; “I’ve also run a wildlife rehabilitation centre in the past, so I’m a lifelong animal lover too!”
These days, Maddy lives in St Ives with her partner, two teenage sons, three cats, and two tenrecs (they’re a small Madagascan creature, similar to hedgehogs – cute, curious, and quite spiky!) As a family, they love travelling, whether they’re soaking up the sun abroad or navigating the UK’s scenic waterways by canal boat!
“When I’m not working, you’ll often find me at a pub quiz (either taking part or enthusiastically hosting one), getting lost in a good book, or laughing my way through a live comedy gig.”
A personal connection to caring
Maddy’s connection to caring isn’t just professional – it’s personal to; “I’m a former wheelchair user, and during that time I was supported by my partner and mum, who were both unpaid carers for me. More recently, I’ve been a part-time carer for my mother-in-law and have supported friends and extended family in a caring role. These experiences have shaped who I am and left me deeply passionate about supporting unpaid carers and the wider caring community.”
Why volunteering means so much to Maddy
Volunteering has always been close to her heart; “Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to give my time in all sorts of ways – from moderating online support groups and campaigning for breastfeeding rights, to running my wildlife rescue and acting as an advocate for vulnerable individuals at medical appointments and benefit assessments.”
Each of these roles reminded her just how powerful it is when people come together to help others. “Volunteers bring energy, warmth, time, and talent – and they make a lasting impact in ways that can’t always be measured, but are always deeply felt.”
Looking ahead in her new role
“I joined Caring Together Charity because I believe volunteers are the heartbeat of community organisations. Volunteers bring not just time and skills, but heart, humour, and humanity. And I can already tell that the volunteers here are something special.”
Maddy is very excited to be here, and even more excited to get to know the people (and stories) that make our community so special. If you see Maddy out and about, please do say hello!
So this Volunteer Week, here’s to our wonderful volunteers – the everyday heroes who help make our world a kinder, more connected place!
