St. Mark’s Hospital Foundation is a charitable organisation that supports research and education at St. Mark’s Hospital - a world-class institution that aims to create a world free of bowel disease. From 13 to 15 of December, they set up a gift wrapping stall inside St. Ann’s Shopping Centre, which is a busy venue during the festive season. Christmas shoppers had the chance to have their gifts wrapped in exchange for a small donation.
When I arrived at the venue, the stall was not very busy – I considered myself lucky as I had not wrapped a present in a long time and could use some relaxed practice! Working out which wrapping paper looked best with which ribbon, gift bow and name tag, while also taking into account people’s preferences was an art and a challenge itself. As the day went on and people got off work, the stall got busier and busier. Many parents came along with several bags full of toys for their children; this required all 6 of us to work very efficiently and I believe I can now confidently say that I am an expert at wrapping presents!
Written by Tanja Hann - One-Off Volunteering Ambassador.
If you're interested in volunteering with St. Mark's Hospital Foundation, take a look at some of their other roles. Or, visit our One-Off Volunteering Programme!