Thank you Claire Grace
In this newsletter, we shine a light on one of our dedicated and valued Mission Guild volunteers, Claire Grace.
Claire is one of the wonderful individuals who has given her time and energy to support Mission Guild’s long tradition of service. She has played a key role in the Recycled Uniform Shop (RUS), a much-loved initiative that encourages sustainability and supports the school community. The RUS relies on families generously donating pre-loved uniforms, which are then resold, with all profits directed to Mission Guild’s nominated charities.
Through this work, volunteers not only model service and generosity for our students but also strengthen the spirit of community that defines St Peter’s College.
At the end of the year Claire will be finishing her role at the RUS and we invite you to learn more about this important role and apply for the position if it is of interest to you.
Read about Claire’s volunteering experience in her own words.
What first inspired you to get involved with Mission Guild?
I read about Mission Guild through an article in the School Newsletter and wanted to become involved in fundraising. I also feel it’s important our children see the benefits of giving back to the community and it being a part of their lives.
How long have you been volunteering, and what roles have you taken on during that time?
I initially started volunteering on Junior School Friends of Saints and transitioned to Mission Guild when my eldest son was in the Middle School. I joined Mission Guild during COVID in 2020, was then the secretary for 12mths (2021) and then moved into the role of Recycled Uniform Shop Coordinator which I have held for 4 years.
What does being part of Mission Guild mean to you personally?
Volunteering and giving back to the community, gives a sense of accomplishment seeing the funds raised, being donated to worthy causes. Being able to share the success of the Mission Guild with the School community, family and friends has made me feel very proud of our achievements.
How do you see the Guild’s work aligning with the values of St Peter’s College, such as service learning and community engagement?
It brings people together as we all work towards a common cause and hopefully making a difference to others’ lives.
What drew you to volunteer in the Recycled Uniform Shop (RUS)?
I love the concept of donating good quality school uniforms to the RUS and the funds raised from their sale go to Anglican charities. A lot of the uniforms would have otherwise gone into landfill or become rags.
Can you describe what a typical shift looks like?
During a shift volunteers will normally sort donations, stock shelves and serve customers.
What do you enjoy most about working in RUS?
It’s an opportunity for everyone in our school community, in their own small way whether it be by donating uniforms or volunteering in the RUS to be involved and be a part of the big picture.
How does the RUS contribute to sustainability and community spirit within the school?
The reuse of clothing has a positive environmental impact and supports Mission Guild’s vision of Recycle, Reuse and Reduce:
– Good quality items can be sent to local charity shops for them to sell
– Unwanted textiles such as woollen items are donated to instore garment collection boxes at stores like Zara and H&M
– Old uniforms are used for rags by a local mechanic business
How important are the donations from families to the success of the shop?
Without donations of preloved uniforms from the School community and the input of volunteers who work in the shop, we would not be able to function.
What would you say to other parents or community members who might be considering volunteering with Mission Guild or RUS?
We would love to have you come on board. You could, volunteer at special events like the High Tea or the School Musical or doing one or two shifts a term in the RUS. It’s a great opportunity to meet other parents and keep up with what is happening in our School community.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Claire and all our Mission Guild volunteers who continue to give their time, energy and compassion to support others. Together, we are not only raising funds for vital causes but also inspiring the next generation to give back.
