A day in the life of an events volunteer

Volunteer Role 

Race for Life/Pretty Muddy event marshal 

When did you start volunteering with Cancer Research UK? 

2015 

What inspired you to volunteer with Cancer Research UK? 

I first started volunteering due to my mum's involvement with Cancer Research UK. She told me that the charity was low on volunteers and I volunteered at my first event in Chesterfield that summer. 

Can you describe your main volunteering activities? 

I started volunteering alongside my dad as a Race for Life marshal in Chesterfield and Clumber Park before progressing to a Pretty Muddy marshal the following year. It was through volunteering that I was approached about taking part in the Events Marketing Internship. That role saw me assist the area events managers with their job in the build up to Race for Life and Pretty Muddy events. 

What skills and experience do you bring to the role? 

When I first started volunteering at Cancer Research UK I was not the most overly confident person. However, after my first Race for Life, my confidence grew and I was able to use my communication skills which I feel are vital when volunteering as a marshal as you need to be able to assist the runners and spectators throughout the course of the day. 

What’s been your favourite volunteering moment/most memorable experience? 

The Events Marketing Internship was a particular highlight for me as it helped improve my CV and was a steppingstone which I think led me to my career today. Away from the internship, I always enjoy the Pretty Muddy events, especially if I am looking after one of the obstacles. It is always a fun day and you get a chance to interact with the runners as they complete the challenge. 

What does beating cancer mean to you? 

It means a great deal to be helping to beat cancer. I think it really sinks in when people start arriving at the start line and you see the wave of pink - it is at that moment when you realise that you are really helping to make a difference to people's lives across the country. 

What would you say to people thinking about volunteering with Cancer Research UK? 

I would tell them to sign up as soon as possible. I think if you are like how I was at the beginning and perhaps a little nervous about volunteering on your own, you should try and encourage a friend or family member to volunteer with you. It is so much fun and a very rewarding experience. 

What three words would you use to describe your volunteering experience? 

Fun, inspiring and rewarding.