Giving isn’t just about money. It’s about the heart. It’s about showing up, rolling up your sleeves, giving your time, and supporting a cause you truly believe in. This World Charity Day, we’re celebrating two incredible volunteers at FareShare Midlands: Ellen and Ian.

Both are delivery drivers and help out in the warehouse, forming an unstoppable force for good. Ellen has been volunteering for over 10 years, while Ian joined later and has been with the team for more than five. Together, they make sure food gets where it’s needed most.

Ellen’s Story

A decade ago, Ellen’s brother suggested she try volunteering at FareShare Midlands. She said yes and never looked back. She still remembers her first days in the warehouse:

"All charities depend on volunteers. I remember walking into the warehouse and feeling this instant buzz, the teamwork, the laughter, and the sense that what I was doing really mattered. Every box I sorted, every delivery I made, I knew it was helping someone who really needed it.”

For Ellen, volunteering isn’t just about lending a hand, it’s about being part of something much bigger than herself. She believes in building a fairer future, where food isn’t wasted and families don’t go hungry. Her journey is proof that a simple “yes” can grow into ten years of meaningful impact.

Ian’s Story

Ian has been volunteering for over five years and is also active with the Scouts and his church.

"Outside of here, I do more volunteering. I help with Scouts; I volunteer at church with the sound system and looking after the building. I’m retired, so this is how I like to spend my time, giving back.”

When the Covid pandemic struck, Ian didn’t hesitate to step up. He teamed up with Ellen, forming a reliable duo on the road:

"It was during Covid, when everything was tough. We were able to bubble together, so Chris said, ‘Well, you two can go out as a team on the van.’ And that’s how it started — just the two of us, making sure people still got their food. I’ll never forget the faces of the people we delivered to. The relief, the smiles, the little Thank-Yous, it made every early morning and long drive completely worth it.

Those deliveries weren’t just boxes of food; they were moments of hope. That transformation is what keeps Ian coming back.

Why They Volunteer

Ellen and Ian are united by a shared belief: that no one should struggle for something as essential as food. As Ellen puts it:

"We do this because it matters, not just for today, but for tomorrow too. Every time we deliver food, I think about the family who will eat tonight because of what we do. It reminds me that volunteering isn’t just about giving; it’s about connecting, showing empathy, and being part of a community that cares."

For Ian, volunteering represents building a world he’d be proud to hand over to future generations, a world where kindness, fairness, and food equity are part of everyday life.

How You Can Help

Volunteering with FareShare Midlands isn’t just about helping others, though that’s the best part. It’s also about meeting amazing people, gaining real-world experience, finding purpose in retirement, and being part of something bigger.

Whether you’re an individual seeking a new adventure or a company ready to give back, we’d love to have you on board. Sign up to volunteer today, join a delivery route, help in the warehouse, or get your team involved. Every hand counts, and together, we can make a real difference.