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A Cancer Research Christmas!
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It was the Cancer Research Christmas Party last night, at the Village Hotel in Hilsea, not a venue I have been to before, but one I hope to go to again. Zerina, Jo and Sam, our three Managers and Cancer Research in Portsmouth, had arranged a fabulous night and this luxury hotel for the bargain price of ten pounds a head and I wasn't sure what to expect when I arrived, after all a tenner doesn't buy you much these days, certainly not a Christmas meal.
The hotel was a bit posh if I am honest, certainly not the sort of place I usually frequent, but it was a welcome change. All of us at Cancer Research were seated together on a long, well decorated table, where we waited to be served. While we sat there chatting with one another, music played in the background and the drinks flowed.
The food arrived piping hot and well presented, not the biggest portions in the World, but it tasted absolutely wonderful. This Christmas meal certainly lived up to the old saying 'Less is more' and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Desert was equally delicious and I was impressed with the service as well as the beautifully cooked affair. The only downside for me, was the cost of drinks, at a cost of five pounds a pint, it was far more expensive than I am used too!
Finally it was an evening of dancing and music, celebrating the beginning of the festive season with friends and colleagues. Each of us were presented with presents from this charity, thanking us for our hard work throughout the year and a secret Santa gift from another member of the staff. This was an important occasion arranged by our Managers to show their appreciation for the time we give. This small gesture is a motivational event that is necessary for all of us to continue doing the work we do. I have worked at other charities before, but haven't experienced such enthusiastic participation from those in charge before.
After visiting my Mother in Hospital today, my Father asked me about my evening last night and I explained my warmth and passion towards Cancer Research. He looked at me and said he was surprised that I decided to volunteer again, after what happened at Oxfam previously. After thinking about his reaction, I was clear in my answer...'Not all charities are the same!' That is the point. After my negative experiences at Oxfam, I didn't think I could work in the charity sector again, but Cancer Research has shown me they are very different to the ghosts of the past. They run their shops efficiently, include all their staff and ensure all of us are part of a well organised team, all working towards the same goal. Cancer Research, gave me a Christmas to remember and finally allowed me to lay Oxfam to rest!
The hotel was a bit posh if I am honest, certainly not the sort of place I usually frequent, but it was a welcome change. All of us at Cancer Research were seated together on a long, well decorated table, where we waited to be served. While we sat there chatting with one another, music played in the background and the drinks flowed.
The food arrived piping hot and well presented, not the biggest portions in the World, but it tasted absolutely wonderful. This Christmas meal certainly lived up to the old saying 'Less is more' and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Desert was equally delicious and I was impressed with the service as well as the beautifully cooked affair. The only downside for me, was the cost of drinks, at a cost of five pounds a pint, it was far more expensive than I am used too!
Finally it was an evening of dancing and music, celebrating the beginning of the festive season with friends and colleagues. Each of us were presented with presents from this charity, thanking us for our hard work throughout the year and a secret Santa gift from another member of the staff. This was an important occasion arranged by our Managers to show their appreciation for the time we give. This small gesture is a motivational event that is necessary for all of us to continue doing the work we do. I have worked at other charities before, but haven't experienced such enthusiastic participation from those in charge before.
After visiting my Mother in Hospital today, my Father asked me about my evening last night and I explained my warmth and passion towards Cancer Research. He looked at me and said he was surprised that I decided to volunteer again, after what happened at Oxfam previously. After thinking about his reaction, I was clear in my answer...'Not all charities are the same!' That is the point. After my negative experiences at Oxfam, I didn't think I could work in the charity sector again, but Cancer Research has shown me they are very different to the ghosts of the past. They run their shops efficiently, include all their staff and ensure all of us are part of a well organised team, all working towards the same goal. Cancer Research, gave me a Christmas to remember and finally allowed me to lay Oxfam to rest!
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