The Volunteer of the Month Award for June 2024 was awarded to the team of volunteers at Trade Aid Picton.
This recognition comes at a poignant time, as the Picton Trade Aid store has recently closed its doors. Despite this closure, the commitment and spirit of the volunteers continue to shine brightly, ensuring the trust will carry on its mission.
The Picton Trade Aid store has been more than just a shop; it has been a cornerstone of the community, offering fair trade products and promoting ethical consumerism. The team of volunteers responsible for the trust and the shop have worked tirelessly to support producers from developing countries, advocating for social justice and sustainability through their efforts.
Here in Marlborough, the volunteers have been the driving force behind the store's success, contributing countless hours to create a welcoming space for customers and educate the public on the importance of fair trade. Their roles have ranged from managing inventory and assisting customers to taking on secretarial, health & safety roles, and more.
Lorna McMahon, a long-standing volunteer, says "it has been an absolute pleasure to be here, selling the craft that our producers have made".
The closure of the store is bittersweet, but the trust remains committed to the principles of Trade Aid and, despite the closure of the physical space, will continue to carry forward the values and mission that the volunteers have championed. The trust aims to continue its advocacy work, support fair trade producers, and find new ways to engage the community in ethical practices.
The Picton volunteers are all women in their 60s, 70s, and 80s. Between them, they have accumulated many decades of experience and commitment to the Trade Aid cause. Many of the visitors to the shop have commented on the welcoming atmosphere these ladies have provided over the years.
When asked about the future, the volunteers expressed optimism and a renewed commitment to their cause, saying the spirit of Trade Aid lives on in each of them.
Volunteer Marlborough is honored to celebrate the Picton Trade Aid team and their invaluable contributions. Their story and experiences are a testament to the power of community, resilience, and the enduring impact of volunteerism.
(Photo [L-R]: Alison Fletcher, Carolyn Banfield, Claire Welch, Judy Neil, Lorna McMahon)
Keen to give volunteering a go? Curious about where you can share your existing skills and experience, or build new ones? Get in touch with our team at Volunteer Marlborough on 03-577-9388, email vm@volunteermarlborough.org.nz, or visit our website.
Thank you to New World Blenheim for sponsoring our Volunteer of the Month Award.
