Thursdays are always 'foggie' at Gaines between 11am and 4pm! That's the day on which we welcome our 'Foggies' (Friends Of Gaines): those who make-up the critical volunteer work-party on which we depend for much of our routine upkeep.
Our Foggies come from various walks of life. Some might bring special skills, the majority do not. Some prefer to work in the grounds and garden, others are more at home indoors. Some enjoy DIY, others will abhor it! Some are happy to wield a paint roller, others would prefer to take the floor polisher for a spin.
In short, there is no typical Foggie. But what they do all have in common is a few hours to spare occasionally (it need not involve an ongoing commitment), and a heart that wants to put them to use to make a real difference. And - wow - what a difference it makes!
We like to think our Foggies enjoy quite a few benefits too, of course! They enjoy our fabulous grounds and surroundings, getting to know new people and making new friends (everyone downs-tools to share the lunch we provide). They enjoy the satisfaction of seeing a project take shape and come to completion (like returning an overgrown area of garden to its former colourful glory, or painting the hallway, or installing a new kitchenette in the staff flat).
And they enjoy the knowledge that their work - and their fun - will have made it possible for us to work more effectively with the young people who visit.
So, please get in touch if you can possibly offer a few hours to join us. Or just show up on Thursday at 10:30am. We'd love to have you even if for a one-off. And we’d love to hear from you even if Thursdays are unsuitable. Who knows: maybe the long term forecast will see many more foggie days at Gaines!