Cath’s journey with RABI started with a chance conversation.
“I’d always bought Christmas cards from the RABI stand at the Royal Welsh Show, but I had no idea there was a local committee,” “It wasn’t until I bumped into Rob, a friend of my dad’s, who told me the Clwyd Committee was looking for new members, that I found out.”
That brief exchange led Cath to attend her first committee meeting, which happened to be the AGM. “Everyone was so friendly and welcoming, a member of staff gave a talk about how RABI helps farming people. Hearing about the impact of the charity really inspired me. That meeting started my journey with RABI and I hope it continues for a long time.”
Cath has quickly become an active member of her local committee, helping to organise a wide variety of fundraising events, from bingo and BBQs to carol concerts and community café takeovers. “I really enjoy the social side of volunteering, meeting people I haven’t seen in years and chatting to new faces. I’m always surprised how many people from farming backgrounds don’t know about RABI or the support available. It feels good to help change that.”
Cath also supports RABI at agricultural shows and public events, as well as contributing to Volunteer Voice, a focus group that meets regularly to help shape volunteering at RABI. “We meet on Zoom about six times a year, and it’s great to have a voice in how volunteering develops.”
One of Cath’s favourite memories was from the Denbigh and Flint Show. “A local man approached me and talked openly about the help he’d received from RABI. It was so powerful to hear firsthand how the charity had supported him. That moment really confirmed that every penny we raise matters.”
Cath has also taken part in training opportunities offered through RABI, including a Food Hygiene course and a two-day Mental Health course. “It was honestly one of the best courses I’ve ever done,” she says. “It gave me tools to be a better listener and changed how I approach people. I hope that if someone ever needed help, I’d know how to help them, and refer them to RABI.”
When it comes to support, Cath has high praise for both her fellow committee members and the central team. “I ask a lot of questions, and staff always have the answers. Their experience is invaluable. Committee meetings are where we come together, and everyone has a say in what we do next.”
For Cath, volunteering with RABI isn’t just about fundraising – it’s about connection. “It’s like-minded people supporting the farming community. Yes, we raise money, but more importantly, we raise awareness. That’s what really makes a difference.”
And her advice to anyone thinking about getting involved? “Give it a go – what have you got to lose? For me, volunteering with RABI has been one of my best decisions. It’s rewarding, and I’ve met some truly lovely people. I hope to keep doing it for a long time.”
Cath’s journey with RABI started with a chance conversation.
“I’d always bought Christmas cards from the RABI stand at the Royal Welsh Show, but I had no idea there was a local committee,” “It wasn’t until I bumped into Rob, a friend of my dad’s, who told me the Clwyd Committee was looking for new members, that I found out.”
That brief exchange led Cath to attend her first committee meeting, which happened to be the AGM. “Everyone was so friendly and welcoming, a member of staff gave a talk about how RABI helps farming people. Hearing about the impact of the charity really inspired me. That meeting started my journey with RABI and I hope it continues for a long time.”
Cath has quickly become an active member of her local committee, helping to organise a wide variety of fundraising events, from bingo and BBQs to carol concerts and community café takeovers. “I really enjoy the social side of volunteering, meeting people I haven’t seen in years and chatting to new faces. I’m always surprised how many people from farming backgrounds don’t know about RABI or the support available. It feels good to help change that.”
Cath also supports RABI at agricultural shows and public events, as well as contributing to Volunteer Voice, a focus group that meets regularly to help shape volunteering at RABI. “We meet on Zoom about six times a year, and it’s great to have a voice in how volunteering develops.”
One of Cath’s favourite memories was from the Denbigh and Flint Show. “A local man approached me and talked openly about the help he’d received from RABI. It was so powerful to hear firsthand how the charity had supported him. That moment really confirmed that every penny we raise matters.”
Cath has also taken part in training opportunities offered through RABI, including a Food Hygiene course and a two-day Mental Health course. “It was honestly one of the best courses I’ve ever done,” she says. “It gave me tools to be a better listener and changed how I approach people. I hope that if someone ever needed help, I’d know how to help them, and refer them to RABI.”
When it comes to support, Cath has high praise for both her fellow committee members and the central team. “I ask a lot of questions, and staff always have the answers. Their experience is invaluable. Committee meetings are where we come together, and everyone has a say in what we do next.”
For Cath, volunteering with RABI isn’t just about fundraising – it’s about connection. “It’s like-minded people supporting the farming community. Yes, we raise money, but more importantly, we raise awareness. That’s what really makes a difference.”
And her advice to anyone thinking about getting involved? “Give it a go – what have you got to lose? For me, volunteering with RABI has been one of my best decisions. It’s rewarding, and I’ve met some truly lovely people. I hope to keep doing it for a long time.”
