Volunteers' Week takes place 1-7 June every year. It's a chance to recognise the fantastic contribution volunteers make to our communities and say thank you. 

We would like to take this opportunity to show our gratitude to all the amazing volunteers that make The Lightbox such a friendly place to visit. Without your dedication, we wouldn't be the vibrant community hub we pride ourselves on being every day.

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Brand-new volunteer, Igor, told us what he enjoys most about his time at The Lightbox:

"I started to look for local volunteering opportunities after it dawned on me that it may perhaps be better if I fill my spare time in a more unique way than just the usual weekend boredom. The Lightbox made it clear that they always welcome new volunteers, and as the best cultural hotspot in Woking and its environs, I thought it would be a good idea to get involved. My experience so far has been fantastic - it was great to meet a few other volunteers, enjoy the wonderful exhibitions for free and chug complimentary hot chocolate on my rest breaks. Volunteering at the Lightbox is an experience I would certainly recommend."

Experienced volunteer Maureen gave us the run-down of a day in the life of a Lightbox volunteer. Plus, she's shared with us some really vital advice for new volunteers:

"When I retired, I considered working as a volunteer. Not for one moment did I think of working in art galleries! After all, what did I know about art? Wanting to know more about Woking Tudor palace led me to the Lightbox and, while looking at Catherine of Aragon’s tiles, I started chatting to a volunteer. And so, I became a Lightbox volunteer and have been for over five years.

What a rewarding experience it has been! I so enjoy welcoming visitors to the Lightbox as well as invigilating for exhibitions of wonderful art, often by very famous artists but also by young artists with emerging talent. I especially love it when children are leaving one of their craft activities and proudly show me their beautiful creations.

Do I know more about art now? Yes, but I still have lots to learn and take enormous pleasure from the learning. I meet such lovely people - visitors, Lightbox staff, and fellow volunteers.

Advice to new volunteers? It’s ok if you don’t know something. Help is always at hand and the learning experience is great. Relax and enjoy being a small part of an important community asset. We, the volunteers, are valued! What a lovely feeling."

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We are always keen to welcome new volunteers to the team, so if you are interested in volunteering at The Lightbox, then what are you waiting for?