RNLI calls on new volunteers to join its fundraising crew in Aberdeenshire

Just like the charity’s lifeboats, the RNLI’s fundraising team need a dedicated volunteer crew. Volunteers are the heart of the RNLI and make up 95% of its people. They are ordinary people who do extraordinary things and without them, the organisation couldn’t continue to save lives at sea.

But it’s not all about volunteering on lifeboats or at a station, there are many other ways people can give a little or a lot of their time to support the RNLI and make their own lifesaving difference.

Karin Ovari is a volunteer fundraiser at Aberdeen RNLI Lifeboat Station.

‘I come from Australia, so I was first introduced to the RNLI through a presentation in which I instantly resonated with and asked how I could help beyond donating money. Within a few months, I was the Honorary Fundraising Treasurer for Aberdeen lifeboat station.

‘It’s fun and I’m constantly learning in my volunteer role as a fundraiser. I am honoured to play my part, and so can you. Everyone has the skills and experience that can help make a difference and support the crews who help save lives at sea.

‘It makes you feel good, and you become part of a unique community of like-minded people who care.’

Alison Byers, RNLI Scotland Engagement Lead said: ‘Without our volunteers, the RNLI simply would not be able to operate the way it does today. With 92% of the RNLI’s income coming from donations, the charity relies on the generosity of supporters and on the dedication of our fundraising volunteers to help raise essential funds. Thousands of community fundraising volunteers organise a wide range of activities and events each year, contributing their time, energy and skills to raise money to save lives at sea. Some of our fundraisers have been volunteering for many years while some just join us for a few months in the year depending on what their commitments allow.

‘We now really need to bolster that support and grow our volunteer fundraising crew. If you like to have fun, enjoy meeting new people and want to join a motivated and enthusiastic team, we encourage you to find out more and apply. You will learn new skills, gain experience and have the rewarding satisfaction of giving back. The RNLI will also provide all the necessary training and support so you can carry out your chosen role effectively.’

To find out more about how you can sign up to be a fundraising volunteer at the RNLI, or to apply, visit this link rnli.org/OneCrewVolunteers

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For more information, please contact Natasha Bennett, RNLI Regional Media Officer on 07826 900 639 or email [email protected]  or Martin Macnamara, RNLI Regional Media Manager on 07920 365 929 or [email protected]

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 142,700 lives.

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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.