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All this week, the Association of Guernsey Charities is celebrating the huge number of dedicated individuals who give their time, energy and expertise to serve as trustees for charities and not-for-profit organisations in our Bailiwick.
This week-long series yesterday started by celebrating Philip Le Pelley's role as a Trustee for the Guernsey Sailing Trust LBG.
The AGC said his work reflects that of all trustees, almost all of whom are unpaid in the Bailiwick, fulfilling the vital role within numerous organisations that are delivering ever more important services to our community.
A recent survey by the Association of Guernsey Charities highlighted the increasing difficulties that charities experience in recruiting individuals to fulfil these roles, generally referred to as “skilled volunteers”, said Wayne Bulpitt, Chair of the AGC.
He said those that take on this level of commitment should all therefore be celebrated.
“As part of these celebrations, we will be highlighting a number of trustees during the week, their background, motivations and skills that they bring, to demonstrate how diverse, in all ways, trustees can be. We very much hope that this will inspire potential trustees by shedding light on the personal satisfaction and growth that can come from joining a charity board or committee.
"Serving as a trustee provides opportunities to contribute to vital causes, but at the same time to develop leadership and teamwork skills as well as networking for the volunteer themselves.
"With these personal stories, we very much hope to demystify these roles and encourage a broader, more diverse group of people to consider becoming trustees themselves.”
All this week Express will be celebrating the work of various Trustees, highlighted by the AGC for their work and commitment.
Olly Duquemin has previously been involved in charity boards since 2017, including the Youth Commission and Citizen’s Advice.
As CEO of Resolution IT he is able to put his professional experience to good use.
Pictured: Olly Duquemin.
“I first became involved as a Charity Trustee to try to give back what I could to the Guernsey community, but also to learn more about the sector and how the experience could help my own personal development. Over the last few years, I’ve been volunteering my time as a board member for Citizen’s Advice and the Youth Commission, contributing to strategic planning, governance, IT and cyber security guidance, and board recruitment.
My focus has been to collaborate closely with fellow board members and executives to drive the charity forward, foster new ideas, and enhance services and operations. One significant challenge on the island is securing sustainable funding for essential charities, so we prioritise finding ways to maximise efficiency and effectiveness. We are very grateful for the funding we receive, it’s vital that we make the very most of every pound raised.
The charities I’ve been involved with make a profound impact on people’s lives, offering essential services to those who might otherwise struggle to access help. These organisations fill crucial gaps that government services cannot cover, often providing more accessible support than public institutions.
Being a trustee is incredibly rewarding, and I’ve gained invaluable insights. Observing how other boards operate has positively influenced the way I run my business, and working alongside other volunteers, many of whom generously contribute significant time and expertise, is truly inspiring. I’d highly encourage others to consider becoming a charity trustee; it’s flexible and allows you to contribute based on your unique skills and available time, just as I do alongside my day job.
I look forward to continuing my role as a Trustee, learning from the charity and its dedicated volunteers.”
To come tomorrow... Harriet Gowan, a Trustee for the Guernsey Community Foundation.
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