Jenna LaRiviere, the Foundation’s Volunteer Manager, said:
“We work with over 43,000 people every year, including some of Norfolk’s most vulnerable people. To allow us to help even more people, the support and dedication of more volunteers is vital.
“There’s no commitment or minimum hours required upon signing up to MyClub – it might be just for an hour or two, every now and again.
“Volunteers come to us from all different backgrounds, and everyone has their own motivation. Some may have family members who are personally impacted by our work, others are simply looking to develop skills, build friendships and enjoy new experiences.
“For those who are interested in kickstarting a career in football and sports coaching, MyClub is a great way to gain valuable experience. Our volunteer coaches can benefit from support, workshops and assessments, and learn from some of the charity’s own experienced coaches and staff.”
Nicol Nicholls, who volunteers at the Foundation’s dementia support group Duncan’s Club, said:
“Volunteering is so rewarding. It can be something as small as a smile. It can be a person coming into a session and saying “I’ve missed you this week!” I do it not for the gratitude but because I love it and I want to make a difference.
“I’ve had to seek help before, and I’ve been in a position where I’ve needed support, so if I can be that to someone else, that’s such a worthwhile thing.”
Volunteer Sue Quantrill added:
“I started volunteering with the Foundation in September 2022 at Duncan’s Club. It has grown so much as a programme, and without fail, brings a smile to my face every week.
“I now volunteer when I can at Foundation events, too. I love the community feel and the friends that I have made. It feels great to support others.”
As part of MyClub, regular volunteers will enjoy access to match day tickets, special rewards and incentives, as well as receiving official branded kit.
Canaries right-back Jack Stacey is among the charity’s volunteers, spending an hour every week with disabled children and adults enrolled in the charity’s life-skills programme, Realising Potential.
Earlier this year, City forward Ashley Barnes surprised volunteer Alex Fearne, who – along with Dad Andrew, and case worker Melvin – help maintain The Nest’s vegetable patch.
The Premier Fans Fund has funded the creation of MyClub, with ongoing support also provided by the Sky Bet English Football League.