As you approach the distant building through the long and winding drive way, your thoughts start to turn towards what is about to happen. Your stomach is churning with nerves and apprehension – "how am I going to cope with this new adventure, am I doing the right thing, did I make the right choice saying yes” ?

So who do I refer to?

1. The parent of a guest perhaps being brave enough to be separated from their son/daughter for the first time, trusting strangers to take over their role for a few days. There could be some feelings of guilt, but mum and dad can have a first proper break in years – a chance to recharge their batteries (so essential).
2. Perhaps it may be the guest now realising that for the first time they will be on their own, in strange surroundings, with strange people, out of routine and thinking “mum and dad really want me to have a great time, but how will I without them?”
3. The first time volunteer Helper aged 13 who completed the training thinking this really sounds like fun, but now realises that the time has come to put it all into practice, “but am I good enough? I feel really nervous!”
4. It could be the very experienced volunteer member of staff returning for the tenth time feeling confident but as is always the case apprehensive, thinking about “who am I going to be working with, will I be a good leader and what new challenges will I be expected to handle?”  Every week is so different.

Generally most people start the arrival day with their own insecurities no matter who they are. After nearly 40 years of Activenture we are used to this. So many people want to do the right thing.

They all converge, the same day, same place, different times and then the myth about Activenture becomes a reality. The staff are briefed by the nurse about every guest’s care plan, and the helpers grouped and settled in. By now the arrival routine kicks in, the volunteers are waiting ready to receive the guests who will join them in their group for the week. Yes, it is normal for a few tears from the guests (and mums & dads - often a really big and anxious step to take, so who can blame them?).

The end of the week, and departure day is a complete contrast:

1. Mums and dads arrive with nervous excitement – how did it all go? Often it all ends in tears yet again, but this time because of the realisation that it really did work, everyone had a great time – including mum and dad (eventually)!
2. Guests are delighted to see mum and dad, but many are upset because of the thought that they will be leaving their new friends. Everyone has a daily diary in their bag so even if they cannot talk about what they have done; at least mum and dad can read about it.
3. The new Helper is no longer new, just very tired and perhaps a little emotional watching their group gradually vanishing up the drive. An incredible week, learning so much and as so many have found before them – grown up just a little faster than imagined possible.
4. "So why was I so worried at the beginning of the week when I always have a good group working with me?"  Sure, some of the guests have had their moments – but we all have to get used to each other and get along. As a member of staff, people looked up to me for support and guidance and I had the opportunity to break away from day to day life. "So that’s the end of my week, an early night to recover and back to work tomorrow then.."

Activenture can touch everyone for many different reasons, and not just the guests. The numerous centre staff will ensure that the stay goes as well as it could and often they will go over and above the usual call of duty. The many organisations and individuals that have helped to fundraise helped to make it all possible.

Of course the Activenture team namely: Di, Lorna and Les pause for breath at the end of each stay. We are immensely gratified at the thank you cards and messages that always follow and it reminds us why we are so lucky to be able to pull this great team of volunteers together, but knowing that the next Activenture is now rapidly approaching.

Such an experience for all..