September’s Volunteer of the Month is Leanne Challis, Technical Underwriting Assistant for Talbot Underwriting, who is a member of the Lloyd’s Community Programme, nominated for her work with ELBA’s Challenge:ELBA Team.

Leanne displayed great enthusiasm for the team challenge day with Abney Park Trust, leading a team of 40 volunteers in total. She showed this enthusiasm right from the initial planning meeting, taking a real interest in the history and current challenges of the park, through to the day itself, where the team cleared 31 tonnes of crushed concrete to create a much safer environment and far surpass the Park Manager’s expectations. This enthusiasm was taken back to the office where Leanne was able to secure a £2,000 donation to Abney Park Trust from the Talbot Community Committee.

Why did you volunteer?
Initially I volunteered because the opportunity arose through an internal vacancy. Since I joined the scheme, I have learnt new skills and made new friends along the way. I find it rewarding and I receive a great level of satisfaction to give something back. Volunteering fulfils personal values that are of great importance to me.

Why do you think volunteering is important?
Volunteering is important because I believe it’s a great way to make an impact in a way you may not normally have the opportunity to do so. Talbot is very supportive towards volunteering schemes and charity events and it’s very fulfilling to see the difference we make in the areas and the people around us.

Would you recommend volunteering to a colleague and if so why?
Most of us have the means and opportunities to give something back to the community. It is so easy to get caught up in your day to day life, even if you spend one hour or one morning it makes a difference and someone will benefit from your support. At the end of the day if the opportunity is there why not take it!!