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Great posting there keith about volunteers. I got involved in carnival some 7 years ago, and have stayed with it ever since.
People have often asked why I do it. It's quite an easy question to answer really in that I love doing something good for Dover but more importantly for the youngsters.
Organising a carnival, selection and for the court to attend events is VERY time consuming, there are huge amounts of work involved, and I guess some people are scared off by thinking there is no way they could do it, but every pair of hands is a useful pair.
Believe it or not. 7 years ago I would not have said boo to a goose, or stood up for what I believed in, but over the last few years as I have conqured each hurdle, dilemma, or obstacle I have chnaged into someone who can "hold my own", someone who is confident, a tidgey bit cheeky, but approachable, and I adore every single youngster that comes DCAL's way.
I did have a mighty fine teacher in Sid I have to say, but now I can hold the reins.
I am extremely proud of all of our committee and youngsters who to are volunteers. Without them there wouldn't be DCAL.
I think there will always be an element of people who will knock what you do, and at times it can make you down hearted, but when ever I get to that point I step back and look at what can be acheived, what has been acheived, and I know that every tear, every fight has been worth it.
All volunteers work super hard,and yes you could say it is a thankless task, but for me I get the buzz of seeing that carnival go out on time, people having fun, the bringing together of the town, and of course the love you get for the youngsters you spend your year with, and it's all worth while.
I wouldn't change a single minute of it. Other than saying farewell to the outgoing court, but the nice thing is that DCAL has always operated a family orientated ethos,which sees the youngsters return as volunteers themseves, helping out with selection night and carnival day, and that in itself says to me
" A job well done"
To all those volunteers. Keep up the good work. The greatest feeling is knowing you give something good to the community
