So many things in life today depend upon volunteers to give their time in the service of their community. Shildon Railway Institute is no different in that respect, and you may be surprised to know that this has been the case since 1833 when it was founded by Timothy Hackworth and other early residents of what was then a new community at New Shildon.
Today's volunteers, which include every member of the unpaid committee, walk in the footsteps of generations of Shildonians that have given up their time to continue something truly great.
On Saturday 17th August 2024 at 12 Noon we launched our new volunteer program called "#TeamStute".
It could make a big difference within our community and to our efforts to reinvigorate and renovate the Institute if you can spare a little time.
It's true that for a while in later decades a 'club culture' was adopted, and while 'clubs' thrived throughout the nineteen-sixties, seventies and eighties onward there was a principle of reward through 'expenses' and 'pint-cheques'. The Institute has long since reverted to its original principles, and as a formally registered community run non-profit organisation its rules now prohibit committee members from profiting.
So, apart from the small team of serving and cleaning staff employed by the members, everything that happens today, and tomorrow, is down to the work of volunteers.
Right now, we need new volunteers to play a part more than ever before.
For the past five years we've been working up a case to reinvent and renovate the Institute and transform its building & services so that they are fit to serve Shildon's people in old and new ways today, and for generations ahead.
We're seeking to create a refreshed legacy for the future - and have reached an exciting turning point in that mission where that change now stands a very real chance of becoming reality. To make it happen though, we need to grow #TeamStute, the group of people 'fighting the corner' for Shildon and its amazing historic Institute.
What do you need people to do?
What a great question! And the answer has much to do with what kind of things interest YOU.
You might be good at working on websites, a social media superstar, an ideas person or maybe someone who always fancied starting a society or interest group. Perhaps you always dreamed of being a reporter, or a keen researcher or archivist.
Maybe you're the practical kind who can turn their hand to painting, decorating or just tidying up, and always get a real buzz from enjoying the results. maybe something gentler like calling bingo or organising games tournaments suits you.
Maybe you're just a keen advocate, general champion or just want to lend a helping hand. Perhaps organising events - like dances, concerts, children's entertainments or one-off classes or craft sessions. Maybe you're interested in doing something that hadn't even occurred to us.
Whatever interests you, we're sure there will be a place for you in #TeamStute
We'll also talk about ways that #TeamStute volunteers can be recognised and made to feel special and appreciated.
You can sign up to express an interest in becoming part of the #TeamStute family or ask questions first by dropping an e-mail to enquiries@shildonrailway.institute - or you can simply pop in to the Institute and have a word with one of our lovely staff.
Or you can contact us through out social media channels - Facebook and 'X'
It's great to be able to show the support that #TeamStute contribute through their volunteering hours - and we do track it - because it helps to demonstrate to supporting organisations and funding partners. You can use this form to log any volunteer time any time you like.
Already volunteering?
Please log #TeamStute volunteer time you contributed using the special form below
2024 - Shildon Railway Institute Limited
A FCA Registered Community Benefit Society
Registration Number 9206