The manager of the
By Elizabeth Lillis
BERWICK will have its own Red Cross Shop next month and volunteers are needed to staff the shop.
Australian Red Cross retail coordinator, Renee Ramakers is looking for a team of 30 volunteers to staff the shop.
The Berwick shop will be the 37th Red Cross Shop in Victoria.
“We have a comprehensive training program covering all aspects of operating the shop, so don’t worry if you haven’t worked in retail before,” she said.
Pakenham Red Cross, shop manager, Sandra Moule said volunteering to work in a Red Cross Shop was a rewarding experience.
“It is a really friendly environment, the volunteers really enjoy coming in and you can see the final result the good presentation in the shop,” she said.
Mrs Moule said the opening of the Berwick shop would complement the Pakenham store.
“We have customers who come in from Berwick,” she said.
Ms Ramakers said ideally, volunteers should have an interest in fashion.
Volunteers will be asked to give a few hours each week, in stock preparation and salesrelated roles.
No retail experience is required.
Mrs Moule said young people volunteer to work in the shop after school and have gained work experience, which has assisted them to find paid work.
Ms Ramakers said the shop layout in all stores is modern with professional fitout.
“It is not just a place for the more mature woman to volunteer, all ages are welcome,” she said.
Funds raised help the Red Cross to support vulnerable people in the community, from providing a nutritious breakfast to children who might otherwise go hungry, to transporting people in need to essential medical appointments.
Red Cross volunteers are assisting bushfireaffected communities by feeding fire fighters, providing first aid and registering evacuees.
An information session covering the shop’s operation, the quality of stock, and training and ongoing support will be held soon.
People interested in helping at the Berwick shop can contact Norma Jardine on 8327 7819 or 0419 690 036.
