I feel so privileged to work for such a wonderful company as Atkin Jones/Sanderson Phillips who provide volunteering opportunities within our day-to-day roles.
Improving our well-being is the key to a happier, healthier life. Part of this is being active, connecting with others and learning new skills. Volunteering at Dunesforde Vineyard was a hugely rewarding way to do this.
I joined a small team of volunteers including three generations of my own family, working outdoors helping to create wines in one of the most northerly wine-making regions in the UK. As well as meeting their passionate team and other volunteers who all shared a common interest in wine, volunteering was a great way to see the vineyard up close and to gain a first-hand insight into what they do at Dunesforde. Nestled in the rolling hills, with rows of grapevines stretching toward the horizon, lies a beacon of sustainability and community spirit: a local vineyard dedicated to eco-friendly viticulture. My experience volunteering was nothing short of transformative, offering a blend of hard work, learning, and a deep connection with both nature and people.
A Commitment to Sustainability
From the first moment it was clear that this vineyard was different. The owners are passionate advocates for sustainable agriculture. Working alongside the vineyard team, I learned about the intricate balance required to maintain such an operation to ensure that every step taken benefited the environment.
Community at the Heart
One of the most rewarding aspects of my experience was the sense of community. Volunteers from all walks of life came together, united by a shared passion for sustainable living and a love for the land. Daily tasks here generally range from pruning vines, leaf tucking, shoot stripping, and finally, in the winter months, harvesting grapes ready for bottling into award-winning wines.
A Lasting Impact
My time here was more than just a volunteer opportunity; I left with a deeper understanding of sustainable agriculture, a renewed appreciation for the hard work that goes into producing eco-friendly products, and a sense of fulfilment from contributing to a cause, which without volunteers would not operate as it currently does.
For anyone looking to make a positive impact on the environment while connecting with a community of like-minded individuals, I highly recommend volunteering at a sustainable vineyard. It’s a chance to get your hands dirty, learn something new, and be a part of a movement that’s making a real difference.
In the end, sustainable viticulture isn’t just about growing grapes; it’s about growing a community that values and protects our natural world. And that’s something worth toasting to. Cheers!
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