by Lorraine Gibson.

Got some spare time? Want to meet people? Fancy helping others?
Then a Dorset charity’s programme of fundraisers for 2023 could be right up your street.
Planned by Dorset’s disability charity, Diverse Abilities, volunteers are needed to help with projects, their own events and community events throughout the year.
Their own initiatives include the Dorset Neon Run, the Country Challenge, their rugby lunch and a gala ball, the Christmas carol service and the annual Christmas tree collection service.
Like live music? Some of the community events you can get involved with are Grooves on the Green, the Wimborne Folk Festival and Camp Bestival.

Laura Stanley, fundraising officer at Diverse Abilities, said: “We’ve got an exciting calendar of events where we need the help of our local community to take on a variety of tasks, including bucket collections, running stalls, and handing out flyers, as well as raising awareness of Diverse Abilities.
“You’ll have a great time, as well as helping to raise money to support children and adults with disabilities in the local area.”
Diverse Abilities also needs volunteers on a more regular basis for roles such as Transport Assistant at the Beehive to supporting students getting to and from the centre and gardening or decorating roles.

Volunteers are crucial to charity work and donating your time for free is every bit as valuable as giving money.
It’s a win-win situation as helpers get a chance to do all sorts – learn skills, meet new people, enhance CVs, get experience, find new interests and improve their mental wellbeing.
For more information or to get involved, visit diverseabilities.org.uk/volunteer or contact Laura on volunteer@diverseabilities.org.uk.