Oxfam in the West End

2007-05-15T16:22:00.000+01:00

meet……….

YEHWON

…….. but you can call me ‘the beauty’

I started in the Drury Lane Oxfam shop in May 2007 – at the suggestion of one of my friends!

My favourite song ever is ‘I still haven’t found what I’m looking for’ by U2.

My favourite work of art of all time – is TS Elliot – A Lovesong of Mr. Pruprock.

The best book I have ever read is Love Story by Eric Segal.

I was born far away – in a land named Korea – South – of course!

The place I would most love to live is right here in London!

My favourite journey so far – was a shopping trip to Tokyo – Japan!

The two times I have been my happiest were when I found a gorgeous pair of shoes – and when I found a gorgeous date!!

When I grow up I want to be a singer.

My favourite colour is white – and I am an Aries.

My favourite meal? Oooooooo – everything with high calories.

The three people I would invite over for a meal would be: Madonna – I want to experience her Karisma!, Johnny Depp – I want to have a bottle of wine with him, Boy George – I would love to have a dance with him – I’ve heard a lot about hime – but am not too sure why he’s so famous?!

I love volunteering for Oxfam because it is interesting to find out what people want to throw away!

2007-05-15T16:19:00.000+01:00

meet………

CHRISTINE

No nickname as yet – still waiting to be given one.

I have been here at the Drury Lane Oxfam shop since February 2007.

I joined because I wanted to contribute more to society.

My favourite group of all time is Queen.

As far as art goes – my favourite artist is Raphael.

I can read anything by Tolstoy!

I was born in Germany – but ideally I would want to live right in the centre of London – in a big house – with a big garden – communally.

My favourite journey is anywhere in my dreams.

The time & place I have been happiest was thirty years ago in France.

I hope I wont grow up anymore – I am what I want to be already.

My favourite colour is purple – and I am an Aries.

My favourite meals are beau salads.

The three people I would love to have a lovely meal with are Heather, Sasha & Dave – for good fun and conversation.
I love volunteering for Oxfam because it has a great atmosphere & I feel like I am doing something worthwhile.

2007-05-15T16:10:00.000+01:00

meet………..

RENAUD

……….. but you can call me Chocho.

I started in the Drury Lane Oxfam shop on Mayday 2007.

I decided to join Oxfam to help many people in the world. I also wanted to improve my English – and working here means I can mix learning English and working for a good reason!

My favourite group is a French group called Suprême NTM.

My favourite work of art of all time has got to be the Eiffel Tower.

The best book I have ever read is Le Petit Prince (or The Little Prince in English), by the French aviator - Antoine de Saint-Exupéry.

I was born in Grenoble – in France – but I guess I would love to live in Australia.

I think that my best journey was when I discovered my first foreign country – which was Ireland.

I was definently happiest when I was surrounded by my entire family – especially my grand mother – but I am only 20 years old – so watch this space.

Most of all when I grow up – I would like to be ‘a good boy’.

I think my favourite colour is blue – I am a Virgo – and my favourite food is anything beefy.

The three people I would love to invite to a meal at the moment are: Sarkosy – to know why he says so much boolshit, Le Pen – to understand why he’s so racist – and Segolene Royal – to understand why she didn’t become France’s president.
I love volunteering for Oxfam because the other volunteers are so open & sympathetic. Also because I feel I am working for others who need our help. I like learning & understanding the importance of working for other people.

2007-05-15T16:07:00.000+01:00

meet…….

KEYLA

I started in the Drury Lane shop on the 12th may 2007 because I want to help people in less developed countries. Also - it’s fun coming here – and to help organise the shop.

My favourite album of all time is the soundtrack to High School Musical

The best book I have ever read is Lola Rose by Jacqueline-Wilson.

I was born in Quador in South America – but ideally I would love to live in Italy.

My favourite journey so far – has been travelling around France.

When I grow up – I would like to be either a teacher – or a doctor.

My favourite colour is baby blue – I am a leo – and I absolutely love pizza.
I love volunteering for Oxfam because it’s fun & I get to meet loads of new people!

2007-05-15T16:05:00.000+01:00

meet…….

JUNG – YUN KIM

……… but – if you really can’t pronounce that – please call be John.

I have been volunteering in the Drury Lane shop since the 2nd of May 2007.

I decided to join Oxfam as a volunteer as I came to London to study English - & I wanted to practice talking English to lots of customers & co-workers.

I was born in Busan in South Korea – but I really love it here in London.

I also love volunteering for Oxfam because I feel that I am playing a small part in helping people less fortunate than me.

2007-05-15T15:50:00.000+01:00

meet…….

Alexandre

…….. but you can call me Ales.

I started working in Drury Lane on the 1st of May 2007 – because it is a great solution to improve my English, work in an English shop – and help other people in the world!

My favourite music has got to be French rap music – like Booba, Soprano …..

I love da instrumental sound!!

I was born in ‘La Tronche’ – near Grenoble City – in France.

The place in the world I would most like to live – is either back home in France – or in Portugal – the sunny part!!

My favourite journey ever – was following the French soccer team winning the world cup in 1988!

The time I was the happiest so far – was at a party before my departure for this job! All my friends were there!

When I grow up – all I want is a good job.

My favourite colours are black & white.

My favourite meal is anything that my mother cooks – but especially her Lasagne!

Three people I would love to invite a meal would be my girlfriend – to have many French kisses, my team of friends – so we can joke and be crazy – and maybe come up with new ideas for a new rap sound, & my best friend – to go to a club afterwards!

I love volunteering for Oxfam as I think this shop has the best solution for helping people who don’t have resources – in my mind – the implication is that it is not ‘lost time’.

2007-05-12T17:37:00.000+01:00

SISTAZ!!

This is how it should be everyone!

If we all brought along another friend, sister, brother, neighbour, classmate, chess opponent, etc - not only will we have more volunteers to do the funky things we do - but - 'cos you already know them - the ice is half-broken.

you can introduce them to the rest of us without anyone feeling too shy.

Andrea has introduced her lil' sista Keyla to our Drury Lane shop - and guess what? She loves it!!

As Andrea filled her in about most of what she does here - and so it was quicker & easier for Keyla to get into the swing of things.

Look out for Keyla's very interesting 'meet.........' in a few days.

Welcome Keyla!!

2007-05-12T17:00:00.000+01:00

MIRIANA

Many Thanks

A huge thanks to Miriana for completely overhauling our clothing section of the Drury Lane shop!!

She worked with all of us showing many hints, tips, shortcuts & stunning displays!!

Of course - thanks need to go to everyone who helped her - but especially Andrea - who worked exceptionally hard!!

And many thanks to Derek Sims of the Oxfam Skill Bank - who arranged for Mariana to be on loan from the Hampstead Oxfam shop for this week! We owe you Derek!

The trick - now....... is to maintain the high standards we have!!

Once again - thanks Mariana - we will miss you!!

2007-05-10T11:35:00.000+01:00

Monica Candy

Sadly - our longest serving volunteer - Monica has passed away after a short illness.

Monica has been a volunteer ever since the Drury Lane shop opened - way back in 1980!! In that time - every single one of us has passed through her training course in fashion, sorting & pricing. She has been the one consistent voice in the shop - and I am not alone in saying that I feel slightly rudderless at the moment.

We will all greatly miss her amazing warmth, friendship, guidance, patience (especially those not overly familiar with fashion trends) - but above all - her stories of her life as a nurse throughout the worlds refugee camps & tales of the Drury Lane shops history.

...........

2007-01-09T13:56:00.000Z

Spanish Goodbye!!

There were tearful scenes in Oxfam Drury Lane recently - when Merce & Carles left us!!

They have both recently got paid work here in London - & nipped back to Spain for a quick break before starting.

Sóna is trying to persuade them to continue on the odd Saturday - so there is hope that we'll see Merce's beautiful smile behind our till again.

Merce & Carles - we all wish you all the very best for your new jobs - but please come & visit us whenever you can!!

2006-07-13T13:57:00.000+01:00

meet……

NEHAR

I have been volunteering in the Drury Lane Oxfam shop since September 2005 – and I joined because I wanted to understand more about international poverty – and I wanted to make some friends.

I don’t really have a favourite album – but I like any old Hindi songs – because Old Is Gold!!

Again – I don’t have a favourite work of art – I believe all art is beautiful.

Books?! – I’ve never ever got around to finishing a book – ever!

I was born in London – but ideally would love to live somewhere in the Caribbean.

I love going on road trips every day – is a day to enjoy!

The time & place I was happiest were in my childhood – how I would love to get them back! Those days were the sweetest!

I’m not too sure what I want to do when I grow up – I don’t like to plan – I want life to take me where it takes me!

I love all the colours of the rainbow & my star sign is Capricorn.

For my favourite meal of delicious Indian food – I would invite Amiiabh Bachan – who is a famous Indian movie star. That man in his lifetime – has made so many movies that touch the heart – and he is so brilliant at acting – that it would be a shame if I ever missed out meeting him (let’s face it – it’s never going to happen – but never say never!)

I love volunteering for Oxfam because it makes me feel good knowing that I am making a difference to peoples lives – who don’t live as good a life as us all. So giving time make’s a big difference – believe it or not.

2006-07-13T13:49:00.000+01:00

meet……

SOHAILA

I have been volunteering in the Drury Lane shop since September 1997 (!) – and joined because I wanted to help a good cause - & of course – meet new friends.

My favourite album of all time has got to be Beethoven’s – Symphony No. 6.

The best piece of art that I’ve ever seen is the Mona Lisa by Leonardo Da Vinci.

And the best book I’ve so far read is definitely I Claudius by Robert Graves.

I was born in Mashed – which is in Iran – but if I had to choose an ideal place to live – it would have to be in Dubai.

My favourite journey so far has been the Silk Road – from Pakistan by road to China.

The place I have been happiest was in Algiers in Algeria – North Africa.

I am a teacher – My favourite colour is green – and my star sign is Cancer.

For my favourite meal of chow mien – I would invite Nelson Mandela, Abraham Lincoln, Gandhi, Mohammed Ali & Jina all together!!

I love volunteering for Oxfam because it is fun coming here. I meet lots of nice people both as volunteers – and as customers.

2006-06-21T11:43:00.000+01:00

BILL'S SCOTTISH BREW

This is a request from all the Earlham Street crew for Bill to pop over here every morning as well.

We have sampled your famous coffee in Drury Lane a few times now - only to come back to Earlham Street for drab old (fair trade) instant coffee. IT JUST AINT THE SAME!!

Bill - if you have any spare time on your brewing round in the morning - come on over & get a fresh pot on the go for us here as well - pleeeezzzzzzzz.......

2006-06-21T10:46:00.000+01:00

LooooKING GOOOOD!!

The work in Earlham Street is well under way! We are having a complete redecorating of the shop fascia (that's the front of the shop to you & me) - and it's already looking great.

This will make a huge difference to the way it looks to us - but a bit more importantly - to the public!

Let's continue to make the changes inside as well. We need to prove to Oxfam that we are worth staying in Earlham Street by increasing our customer support, our donators, our appeal to prospective volunteers - and of course our takings!!

If we start looking better inside - as well as outside - we'll make a massive difference to all the people we raise money for!!

2006-06-15T12:23:00.000+01:00

This just in from Om

The following is the 3rd June blog from the always entertaining & very funny blogsite(http://om87.spaces.msn.com/) of the handsomest dude we have volunteering for us:

03 June
Donate!
Hey everyone,

As we all pack off and head home for the summer, I'm sure there's loads of stuff we simply don't need.

This is to urge everyone to donate their excess to charity at Oxfam. The closest Oxfam store to the LSE is 23, Drury Lane, which is 7 minutes from Houghton Street, 5 minutes from Grosvenor House and 3 minutes from High Holborn. Or else, you can find the store closest to where you live here> http://www.multimap.com/clients/places.cgi?client=oxfam3

Just to let you know - an old shirt can fetch as much as 6 pounds. 6 pounds can feed a 100 schoolchildren from an under-developed country for a day. So your old shirt could make the difference between whether these children stay at school or not; or whether they go hungry that day or not. As students, I'm sure we can all well appreciate how difficult it is to study on an empty stomach.

Choose well!
~Om

Thanks Om - although it is squarely aimed at the rest of you LSEers - there is no reason why we can't all send a similar message to all of the other student pals we have in any of the other Unis represented here at Oxfam. We are all soon heading off home for the summer - and I know that I definitely won't fit into my last summers wardrobe - so bring it in next time you have a shift at either shop!
Tracey

2006-06-15T11:50:00.000+01:00

meet………..

AGATA

I have been volunteering here in the Drury Lane Oxfam shop since 14 June 2006 – and joined in order to practise my English (I’m from Poland), to help people less fortunate than me & and to meet and make new friends.

I don’t really have any favourite music – I guess I like almost anything!!

I was born in Hrubiezow – I’m sure you don’t know where it is – but it’s in Poland.

My favourite journey can be anywhere - as long as it’s somewhere hot & sunny.

When I grow up I want to be a successful translator.

My favourite meal has got to be any pancakes – served in many various ways.

2006-06-13T13:04:00.000+01:00

meet ………

YOON

I started volunteering at the Drury Lane Oxfam shop on the 7th June 2006 – because I’ve always felt that if you get the opportunity to help others – you should use it!

The best song I’ve heard so far has been Tears In Heaven by Eric Clapton.

My favourite artist has got to be Vincent van Gogh.

And the best book I’ve read so far is The Present by John Spencer.

I was born in Korea – but ideally would love to live in Sweden.

My favourite journey was when I was 20 – and I went to Je-Ju-Do in Korea.

I am the most happiest right here & now.

When I grow up I want to be a pilot.

My favourite colour is blue – and I am a Pisces.

I have two kinds of very different favourite food: Korean food – and pizza!
I love volunteering for Oxfam because there are many kindly people here – and when I work here – I get a piece of that happiness!!

2006-06-13T12:59:00.000+01:00

meet…….

KITTY

I started volunteering here at the Drury Lane Oxfam shop in April 2006 in order to do something I feel is worthwhile – and is only a few hours out of my week.

I have quite a few favourites when it comes to music – how about The Three Tenors, Abba, The Mavericks, Nana Mouscouri & UB40?!

My favourite piece of art of all time has got to be the Sydney Opera House.

The best book I have ever read is the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith.

I was born in Dundalk, County Louth in Ireland – but ideally would love to live anywhere warm.

My favourite journey is from Tel Aviv to Eilat via Public Coach – but failing that – Business Class Singapore Airlines LHR-SYD.

I was happiest when I met my husband in ’66 and we danced seven nights a week…….

When I grow up I want to be a musician.

My favourite colour is black….. no…. turquoise……. no…. black …… no…….. turquoise……… oh!

My star sign is Cancer.

My favourite meals are either Indian food – or Irish Champ (traditional Irish dish of mashed potatoes with green onions).

For this meal (above) I would invite my late husband Liam (because I love him), my daughter – because she’s alright, and the late comedian Dave Allen – I’d be guaranteed laughter for the evening – and perhaps some fireworks at the end……

I love volunteering for Oxfam because it is a good cause – and you meet lots of either nice or interesting people – sometimes both!

2006-06-08T13:56:00.000+01:00

meet……

EILEEN

I started volunteering on April Fools Day in 2006 in the Earlham Street shop – but help out in the Drury Lane shop as a & when it’s needed as well.

I am good friends with Maureen – and she kept going on about how she loved volunteering for Oxfam – so I decided to give it a go & haven’t looked back since!!

I can’t remember the name of the best book I have ever read – but it was about twin boys if that’s any help.

I was born in the West Middlesex Hospital in Isleworth here in London – but ideally would love to live near my nephew in Worthing (next to Brighton) in Sussex.

I would say I was happiest while I was growing up – but as I am still growing up – you can answer that question for yourself! But when I fully grow up I want to be a cake decorator.

I love every colour of the rainbow & am a Capricorn.

For my favourite meal – which would have to be a Chinese one – I would invite my mate Maureen, My son & my sister – because two are my family & Maureen is my best mate.

I love volunteering for Oxfam because it has very friendly staff – and a happy boss & I can have a good laugh with the customers.

2006-06-01T12:23:00.000+01:00

NO GLASTONBURY
(BOO HOO)

BUT PLENTY
OTHER FESTIVALS!!

As all the regular Glasters volunteers will know - Michael is giving his farm a well deserved rest this year - but that doesn't mean that we can't still get into the other festivals for free this summer!!

Far from it! As a shop volunteer - we can get way to the front of the queue for Stewarding & Campaigning at the premier music events of the summer (and beyond).

Please see Sóna for more details or simply log on to: http://www.oxfam.org.uk/generationwhy/do_something/volunteer/festivals/
and take it from there.

Whichever way you do it - Sóna still has to give you a reference to confim that you work in one of our shops - and that you're one of the greatest people on earth - and the next thing you're moshing it with the rest of us in front of Kasabian, The Magic Numbers, The Killers, The Polyphonic Spree & suchlike!

Check what happened last year: http://www.oxfam.org.uk/generationwhy/festivals_blog/
and get green with envy!!

Get Jiggy With It!!

(thanks to Lucy for her belly button - put it away now!)

2006-06-01T11:42:00.000+01:00

WELCOME TO OUR NEW NEIGHBOUR!!

Oxfam has just opened a new Oxfam Bookshop around the corner from us - near the British Museum!

I urge all of you to pop around for a browse around it's shelves - it's beautiful. Not only that - but you will recognise two of the volunteers from Drury Lane - who defected when the bookshop opened - and they'll give you a grand conducted tour of the new shop.

We are busy working on a new leaflet-with-map listing the two of our shops, the Oxfam Bookshop & Cafe Progesso - the Oxfam Cafe. I have walked the route many times - and we are all only 2 minutes from each other - so any customers could actually do all four in their lunch hour.

In the meantime - please give each customer the small map at each till - showing the way to the new Oxfam Bookshop. Don't worry about losing any of our customers to the new shop - our book customers love a good browse through our unique shops - and will visit all of them.

Remember - Oxfam is the largest second-hand-bookshop chain in Europe - and as such attracts both serious bookies & complete pulp fiction junkies into our shops daily - by spreading the word - we can spread their custom all around the world!!

To Alison, Martin & crew in the new Oxfam Bookshop - we wholeheartedly welcome you to our hood - and wish you all the greatest success!!

2006-05-09T13:31:00.000+01:00

GET WELL SOON MONICA!!

Monica sends a huge THANKYOU to everyone that visited her at the St. Johns Hospice. She was very bored there - and the visits cheered her up no end.

She has now moved to Hampshire - and knows that it is a lot further to visit - but will welcome anyone who feels like going out - to share the gossip of the Drury Lane shop.

Please see the message book under the till to get her new adress & telephone number. Please do give her a call beforehand to let her know you're coming. And also let Bill know when you're going - so that he can give you the next pile of books that she is racing through.

I know that you all join me in wishing Monica the speediest of recoveries - and hope to have her back training us all up in sorting & pricing - as soon as she feels well enough.

Monica - we all miss & love you enormously - get well soon and come in for a cuppa as quick as you can.

2006-03-29T11:47:00.000+01:00

meet …….

VIRGINIE

I am here at the Drury Lane Oxfam shop for one month only – as I am a student from Belgium – and I want to gain work experience – and to improve my English.

I have 2 favourite music groups or artists – I love Maroon 5 and I absolutely adore Britney Spears – especially In The Zone.

My favourite work of art is Le Baiser by Rodin – in English it is The Kiss.

The best book I have ever read is a French book called Jamais Sans Ma Fille by Betty Mahmoody.

I was born in Liege in Belgium – but I would love to live in Bora Bora – to have sunshine all the time.

I have had two favourite journeys so far. The first was when I went to Syria with my grandfather – and the other was a trip to Punta Cana – a small island part of the Dominican Republic.

When I grow up I want to be a successful businesswoman.

My favourite colour is black & I am a Taurian.

For my favourite meal of Chinese food – I would invite my boyfriend because I love him – My sister because she is the only person I really Trust – and David Beckham because I like him very much.

I love volunteering for Oxfam as the volunteers are extremely friendly – and they care for newcomers. But mostly because I would like to help make poverty history.

Virginie has now returned to Belgium - and we all wish her the best of luck for the future. Thanks for all you hard work!!

2006-03-29T11:44:00.000+01:00

meet .....

DIANA

I started volunteering on the 2nd of February here at the Drury Lane Oxfam shop as part of my course work – but also love giving back to the community.

My favourite author has got to be Jacqueline Wilson – I have read all her books.

I was born in Porto – in Portugal – but ideally would love to live in Barbados.

My best journey so far was when I went on holiday with my family to the Algarve.

When I grow up – I want to be a successful businesswoman.

My favourite colour is baby blue – and I am a Libran.

For my favourite meal of rice & chicken – I would invite Bow Wow & Omarion & a mate because we are huge fans of them!!

I love volunteering for Oxfam because they enable me to give back to the community & help others.

Diana is back at school now & thinking of joining us for the holidays - Thanks Diana for all you put into the shop - especially the fashion advice!

2006-03-29T11:29:00.000+01:00

meet …….

SABRINA

I am only here in this Drury Lane Oxfam shop for one month as an exchange student from Belgium – to meet new friends, improve my English & contribute to making poverty history.

My favourite group is Aventura – premium Latin music!!

The best book I have read is a French book called Les Malheurs de Sophie by Comtesse De Ségur – it’s actually a kid’s book – but I love it!

I was born in Belgium – but I would love to live somewhere in the South of Spain.

The best journey I have been on so far was when I went with all my family to the north coast of Algeria.

When I grow up I want to be a successful businesswoman.

My favourite colour is blue – and I am a Capricorn.

For my ultimate meal of pasta – I would invite my boyfriend – because I love him, Prince William – because I love him too, and my mother – because she is the best woman in my world.

I love volunteering for Oxfam as the rest of the volunteers make me feel so very welcome.

2006-03-29T11:24:00.000+01:00

meet ........

ANDREA

I started volunteering in the Drury Lane Oxfam shop on the second of February 2006 as part of a citizenship project for my school coursework – and also – I want to explore more about Oxfam – and how they help people all around the world.

My favourite musician has got to be Beethoven – and my best artist is Picasso.

The best book I’ve ever read – I am still reading – and it’s the English dictionary.

I was born in Ecuador - but ideally I would love to live in Rome, Italy.

I don’t really have a favourite journey as yet – but I do love travelling.

The place & time I’m at my happiest is when I am sleeping.

When I grow up I want to join the army.

My favourite colours are black, green & red – and I am a Gemini.

For my favourite meal (any kind of BBQ) – I would invite everyone I know – because they are all great people – and also George Bush.

I love volunteering for Oxfam because I like the way the volunteers work without getting any pay – in order to help other people.

Andrea has now finnished her placement with us - Thanks for everything you did for us Andrea - especially the great window displays!!

2006-03-28T17:42:00.000+01:00

meet ……..

SAMIA

I am volunteering in this Drury Lane Oxfam shop for one month as an exchange student from Belgium. I would like to help poorer people in other countries.

My favourite musical artist is Madonna – I love all her music – especially her latest album.

The best book I have ever read was La Vitta e Bella – an Italian book that translates as ‘Life is Beautiful’.

I was born in Liege in Belgium – but would love to live in either the South of Spain – or the North of Africa.

The time & place I am happiest is when the person that I love is feeling good.

My favourite colours are brown, white, black & blue – and I am a Sagittarian (December 5th).

For my favourite meal of Arabic & Italian food – I would invite all my family & my boyfriend.

I love volunteering for Oxfam as all the other volunteers are very friendly & helpful.

Samia is now back in Belgium - thanks for all the glamour you brought to the shop Samia! And sorry that British food didn't always agree with you!!

2006-03-28T17:24:00.000+01:00

meet .........

ARKAR

I started here in the Drury Lane branch in February 2006 because I want to give back to the community. I would like to think I am a helpful person.

My best album of all time is really anything by Marvin Gaye!!

The best book I’ve ever read has got to be Romeo & Juliet by William Shakespeare.

I was born in Burma – in South-East Asia – but I don’t mind where I live as long as it’s with my girlfriend.

The best journey I have had so far – was when I went to Paris and met the love of my life – Mishell.

When I grow up I want to be a famous actor.

My favourite colours are baby blue &amp;amp;amp;amp; beige.

I can & do eat everything – so for my meal I would invite Mishell ………………………… and Jennifer Lopez!

I love volunteering for Oxfam as I feel I am giving something back to the community.

2006-03-28T17:20:00.000+01:00

meet ....

MISHELL

……… but you can call me babygirl!

I volunteer in the Drury Lane Oxfam shop and have been here since February 2006.

I started because I wanted to experience something new and give something back to the community.

I have no real favourite group or artist – but I love all forms of music.

The best book I have ever read is a great book called The Cheese – you should read it yourself!!

I was born in Ecuador – but would love to live everywhere – although my favourite journey so far was to Paris.

The time & place I am happiest is when I am with my family & the person that I love – his name is Arkar.

When I grow up I would love to work in the travel industry.

My favourite colours are baby blue & red – and I am a Gemini.

For my favourite meal of roast chicken, rice & lettuce salad – I would invite my boyfriend Arkar ……………………… and Brad Pitt!

Audit Results for Earlham Street

2006-03-16T16:27:00.000Z

Hi everyone

As you already know - we have had audits done in both shops recently - and - as this blog is read by the majority of us - I want to share the results with you.

Of course - most of these points you will have read many times in the shop message book - and - these will still be repeated AGAIN in the message books and notice boards - and I am in the process of chatting to you each individually about the results. But all these points need to be addressed immediately - and as we don't all come in each day - and I can count how many hits we've had on this site - and know how effective it is in keeping you up to date.

Although this posting concerns only Earlham Street - as we have a lot of shared volunteers in both the shops - it would be useful for everyone to still read it. There is a separate posting for Drury Lane.

Right - here goes:

There is going to be a filing cabinet installed in the new office after the re-fit – and all essential paperwork will have it’s rightful place to be stored. I will show everyone where to do all the storing personally.

I will be signing all SA3’s from now on - and filing them with the relevant SA2.

The banking will be done every day as soon as I have recruited a new banker.

We are getting the building department to install a panic button under the till so that it only rings in the other rooms - and not just behind the perpetrators - thus making you feel more venerable.

We will not open the shop with only one volunteer from now on.

Please do not ever confront a difficult customer.

We are discussing a number of security options for the new shop – including the use of security tagging the garments.

We must continue to fill out a new seal for the bottom of the Donation Box - with two people each time. These are kept at the back of the Shop Message Book at the moment – but when we recruit a new banker – will be stored in the safe.

There is a new donation receipt book for the ‘Unwrapped’ donations – please read the instructions for it’s use on the rear inside cover.

We will gladly give any customer a refund - providing it was bought within the last 3 weeks, it still has the price tag attached - and the customer has a receipt. Please fill out the receipt book in triplicate, and have it countersigned by another volunteer. Never ever take the Refund Policy down again.

The 'Staff Purchase Register' (green book under the till) is still not being used by everyone who buys something from the shop. Please make sure that you fill it out each & every time you purchase an item from the shop.

There is now a 'Valuables Register' under the till as well. Should we receive a donation (not money!) that you feel is worth more than our usual donations - please list it in this book.

I have had a word with Charlie at everyone's favourite market stall - and he is still adamant that he will not write a receipt out for your lunch allowance - 'too busy y'see mate' - but we all know that there are heaps of other delis, shops, bakeries, sandwich shops, etc around - so why not give them your business instead of someone so unco-operative. Remember - you are entitled to spend up to £5 - and from now on - it will only be paid by Oxfam if you produce a receipt.

If possible - please try and get a receipt for you day travel card when you get it in the morning. I know you can't get it from the ticket machines - but if the queues at the counter are not too long - please try and get one.

So there you have it - a rather comprehensive list of all the things we failed during the last audit. Please remember that these points are all there to protect you & our supporters. We need to meet these easy & basic requirements in order to make Oxfam, it's money, staff, customers, donations, and future supporters feel that everything we do is in all our good interests.

Audit Results for Drury Lane

2006-03-16T13:30:00.000Z

Hi everyone

As you already know - we have had audits done in both shops recently - and as this blog is read by the majority of us - I want to share the results with you.

Of course - most of these points you will have read many times in the shop message book - and - these will still be repeated AGAIN in the message books and notice boards - and I am in the process of chatting to you each individually about the results. But all these points need to be addressed immediately - and as we don't all come in each day - and I can count how many hits we've had on this site - and know how effective it is in keeping you up to date.

Although this posting concerns only Drury Lane - as we have a lot of shared volunteers in both the shops - it would be useful for everyone to still read it. There is a separate posting for Earlham Street.

Right - here goes:

The collection box has been securely fastened onto the counter. Please don't ever unscrew it - this makes it easier for someone to do a runner with it.
We must continue to fill out a new seal for the bottom with two people each time. These are kept at the back of the Shop Message Book.
The box must be emptied at least weekly - which Abdul has agreed to do on Saturdays.
We have to fill out a 'Shop Security Report Form' for each & every incident we have from now on. There are blank forms at the back of the Shop Message Book.
We are getting the building department to change the panic button under the till so that it only rings in the other rooms - and not just behind the perpetrators thus making you feel more venerable.
We will have the 'Thieves Will Be Prosecuted' signs put up as we did before the refit.
Please never EVER leave the till unattended.
Remember to always write the reason for doing a 'No Sales' transaction on the rear of the resulting receipt - and sign it with another volunteer. Also - ask yourself if it's really necessary to do a 'no sale' - maybe get more change when the till opens for the next transaction.
The petty cash vouchers must be signed by the person doing the till - with another volunteer counter-signing them. And then I will personally sign them when I see them. Please try and remember the pay out until the following week - as I will need to chat with you if I feel there is something that needs further describing, or missing lunch receipts etc.
The 'Staff Purchase Register' (green book under the till) is still not being used by everyone who buys something from the shop. Please make sure that you fill it out each & every time you purchase an item from the shop.
There is now a 'Valuables Register' under the till as well. Should we receive a donation (not money!) that you feel is worth more than our usual donations - please list it in this book.
We are either going to scrap the glass cabinets behind the till - or someone from the building department will come and fix them securely into the wall with lighting and keys. I will let you know how this proceeds shortly.
Please remember that the accident book is kept with the first aid box - in the cupboard immediately above the sink - in the kitchen. This needs to be filled out for each & every accident you may have - no matter how small you think it is (or how tough you think you are - David!)
From now on - there is to be absolutely no smoking anywhere on the premises.
If anyone visiting the shop says they are from Head Office - or any organisation & needs to go into any of the private rooms - please ask them for identification first.
When using our brand new lockers - please make sure you lock them and keep the key on you. Of course - make sure you leave the key in the EMPTY locker when you finish your shift as well.
Remember - you are far more precious to Oxfam than any donations, goods or money - if someone shoplifts - NEVER EVER chase after them. Just ask someone to take over - and wind down with a nice cuppa in the chill-out room.
We will gladly give any customer a refund - providing it was bought within the last 3 weeks, it still has the price tag attached - and the customer has a receipt. Please fill out the receipt book in triplicate, and have it countersinks by another volunteer.
I have had a word with Charlie at everyone's favorite market stall - and he is still adamant that he will not write a receipt out for your lunch allowance - 'too busy y'see mate' - - but we all know that there are heaps of other delis, shops, bakeries, sandwich shops, etc around - so why not give them your business instead of someone so unco-operative. Remember - you are entitled to spend up to £5 - and from now on - it will only be paid by Oxfam if you produce areceiptt.
If possible - please try and get areceiptt for you day travel card when you get it in the morning. I know you can't get it from the ticket machines - but if the queues at the counter are not too long - please try and get one.
A bottle of bleach was also found on the premises - we are absolutely forbidden from using bleach - there is a list of alternative cleaners on the kitchen cupboard - so please carry on cleaning around you - but only with much safer materials.

So there you have it - a rather comprehensive list of all the things we failed during the last audit. Please remember that these points are all there to protect you & our supporters. We need to meet these easy & basic requirements in order to make Oxfam, it's money, staff, customers, donations, and future supporters feel that everything we do is in all our good interestss.

Lockers!!

2006-03-01T14:54:00.000Z

I know they simply look like over grown tin cans - but aren't these new lockers the sexiest things in our shops?!

A massive thanks to Trevor (that's my boss - for the newer crew members) - both shops now have these superb new lockers - and we need to look after them carefully.

Or - more importantly - look after the keys VERY carefully.

Please make very sure that you leave the key behind in the empty locker door when you finnish your shift. We can't have dedicated lockers for each of us forever - so when you leave the shops - please leave the locker you have used empty, unlocked - and with it's key still in the lock - ready for the next shift to use.

This will make me a very happy bunny!!

peace
Sóna

2006-01-27T11:15:00.000Z

meet……

SHAFKAT

I started here in the Drury Lane Oxfam shop on the 26 January 2006 because – with my spare time - I wanted to help people much poorer than us here in the West.

My favourite group has got to be Guns & Roses.

The best piece of art I have seen in definitely the Mona Lisa by Leonardo Da Vinci.

The best book I have so far read is The Godfather by Mario Puzo.

I was born in Bangladesh – but I would like to settle here in the UK now.

My favourite journey was when I first went to India – and that’s when I was the happiest – that – and when I came here to the UK to get married.

My favourite colours are blue & black – and I am an Aquarian.

For my favourite meal of pizza – I would love to invite my wife, Natsumi & Van because they are all lovely people.

I love volunteering for Oxfam because it allows me to help the world’s poorest people.

After volunteering 6 days a week for just over 4 months - Shafkat naturally got an excellent reference from us here in Oxfam. He then applied for - and got a fantastic job in one of the West End's more snooty 5-Star hotels - on the reception.

Well Done Shafkat!!

But ...... Get this:

He is still volunteering in either shop on his day off!!

Shafkat - thanks for all you are continuing to do for us here in Oxfam - you're a star!!

2006-01-26T12:14:00.000Z

meet……..

PATRIC

I started in the Drury Lane Oxfam shop on the 23rd of January 2006 because I am a student at Aspect College (English Language College around the corner) – and I have a little time to help. I like your great aim to help people
world-wide.

I really like all music – but if I had to choose – I’d say the Rolling Stones.

My favourite works of art – are just about everything by Salvador Dali.

The best book I have ever read is a French book called La Prophetie des Andes.

I was born in Paris – France – but ideally I would love to live on the moon.

My favourite journeys so far have been to Tahiti – because it was so far – but I also loved New York, and Venice, and, and, and …….

I am pretty much happy all over the world – as long as I’m with great people – just conversing and getting along with them.

Although I’m 54 years old – when I grow up I’d like to help many people with all my skills & experiences.

My favourite colour is the yellow of the sun & I’m a Leo.

For my favourite meal of pasta – I’d invite John Fitzgerald Kennedy – because he was a strong leader – Mick Jagger – because he is a great artist & showman – and The Dalai Lama – to have great philosophical conversations with.

I love volunteering for Oxfam because it’s a good humanitarian cause – and all the staff are volunteers who give their spare time to help make a better world.

Patric has now learnt enough English - and has returned to France. Patric - thanks for all the great Jazz conversations over the sorting desk! I still think Coleman Hawkins is better than Charlie Parker - anyday!!

2006-01-25T15:14:00.000Z

meet……..

ANNE

I have been a volunteer in this Drury Lane Oxfam shop since November 2005 and I joined after hearing a street preacher in Oxford Circus say: You spend all your time buying things you don’t need – stop ignoring your starving neighbour in need."

My best album of all time is Origin of Symmetry by Muse.

My favourite piece of art is Bliss by David Slade.

The best book I’ve read so far is The Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison.

I was born in Birmingham England but I love living here in London right now.

My favourite journey is walking up Harrow on the Hill at sunset.

The time & place I was the happiest was at a Muse gig at Earls Court in 2004 with my friends.

When I grow up I want to be a journalist or somehow working in the media.

My favourite colour is red – I am a Leo – and my favourite dish is chicken Caesar salad.

I love volunteering for Oxfam because the atmosphere is great, meeting so many new people from all over the world is great – and knowing I’m doing something to help – however insignificant – is great.

2006-01-25T15:10:00.000Z

meet……

ALEV

I started volunteering in the Oxfam shops in Drury Lane & Ealing Broadway in June 2004 – in order to use my free time to work towards ending poverty.

My best album of all time is Kiss Me Kate by Cole Porter.

I’m not too sure of the name of my favourite piece of art – but it’s the one with drooping watches in the desert by Salvador Dali.

I was born in London – but ideally would love to live in Hawaii, Rome, Paris – or even here in London.

My favourite journey so far – was driving from Boston down to New Orleans.

The place I have been happiest was swimming in warm water with tropical fish all around me.

When I grow up I want to be a writer.

My favourite colours are purple, red & blue – and I am a Scorpio.

For my favourite meal of Lobster & Rabe, Sweetcorn & Clams – I would invite Frieda Kahlo, Joan of Arc & Sarah Bernhardt.

I love volunteering for Oxfam as it gives me the opportunity to work with Oxfam & be part of their aims. Also I love meeting new people – and of course all the volunteers.

Alev (& David) have just moved back to Boston USA! Alev - thanks for all the quiet proffesionalism you gave to Drury Lane!! We will all miss you terribly - but won't lose contact.

For all those who missed Alev's final day - please stay in touch with this email adress dungadanis@yahoo.co.uk.

2006-01-25T15:07:00.000Z

meet……

JAVIER

I started volunteering for the Drury Lane Oxfam shop on the 25 November in 2005 because I wanted to help others through Oxfam – and also to practise my English – and hopefully improve it.

The best book I have read so far has been The Alchemist – but that brilliant writer Paulo Coelho.

I was born in Spain – and co-incidentally – that is the place I would ideally love to live.

When I grow up I want to be known as a trustworthy person.

My favourite colour is green.

My star sign is Scorpio.

My favourite dish – coming from Spain – is of course – Paella!!

2006-01-25T12:05:00.000Z

meet………

YUSSIF

I started volunteering here in the Drury Lane Oxfam shop in November 2005 in order to make a contribution to the activities of Oxfam – as they are geared towards poverty alleviation & improving the lives of impoverished peoples.

My favourite artist & album is Usher’s Confession.

The best book I’ve read so far is The Doomsday Conspiracy by Sidney Sheldon.

I was born in Ghana – and ideally would love to live in Canada. But my favourite journey so far has been to France in December 2005.

The time & place I was happiest was in Ghana – when I was offerred a scholarship to study at the LSE.

My favourite colour is light blue & and my star sign is cancer.

For my favourite meal of fufu – I would invite Nimatu Atchulo – a very close friend, Alhassan Musah – he has been my advisor and supporter in life – and Bauug – who urged me on when things were difficult & exposed me to many opportunities in life.

I love volunteering for Oxfam as the people are lovely to work with. Also – you feel you are making a contribution to the lives of many poor people.

2006-01-25T11:59:00.000Z

meet………

GERVAISE

I have been a volunteer in the Drury Lane Oxfam shop since September 2005 – and found out that it needed volunteers by a nice letter coming through my door.
(This was the one that Isobel spent a whole day distributing amongst her neighbours).

I was born in Alexandria, Louisiana, USA

My best musical album of all time is Long Neck Bud by Edi Chin.

My favourite work of art is Peter Hujar’s Tatooed Feet.

The best book I’ve ever read would have to be either the last, or next one.

The one place I would love to live is right here & now – and my favourite journey is around the world – going west.

The place & time I have been the happiest was studying by the side of the road, surrounded by miles of wheat fields – with the big sky of Saskatchewan above – or in the middle of the road under the Northern Lights! Yeah!

My favourite colour is green - I’m a Leo.

For my favourite meal - which has got to be duck gumbo – I would invite my husband & my best girlfriends – one from London & one from New Orleans.

I love volunteering for Oxfam because I meet so many interesting, diverse & fun people – whilst doing good!!!

WANNA JOIN US?!

2006-01-24T14:36:00.000Z

……… well then – all you gotta do is follow this link:

http://www.oxfam.org.uk/what_you_can_do/volunteer/index.htm

……. to fill an application form out – and then email it to this link:

oxfamshopf8023@btconnect.com

………. and we’ll do the rest!

The two Oxfam shops right here in the West End of London are the best place to do voluntary work – and nip to the British Museum or Chinatown or Leicester Square afterwards.

We all absolutely love helping set the world right – and then meeting for a fair trade coffee somewhere in Soho.

Come on ………. join us.

2006-01-24T13:53:00.000Z

meet……..

MONICA

I have volunteered in the Drury Lane Oxfam shop since the summer of 1992.

I used to work as a manager of a day care centre in Barnet – and shortly after retiring – I missed the routine and camaraderie of working. As I was doing some courses at the City Lit across the road – I popped into the Oxfam shop and saw a poster asking for volunteers.

Biddy was on the till – and she was very enthusiastic and seemed to enjoy what she was doing – so I took an application form – and have never looked back.

The best book I’ve ever read is The Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens.

I was born in Newport, Monmouthshire in South Wales – but ideally would love to live in the South of France again – it has a wonderful climate.

The best journey I’ve had so far was when I was much younger – and a group of three of us girls hitch hiked from France down through Europe to the Italian
Island of Ischia – just off the Bay of Naples.

I can’t remember what I wanted to be when I grew up – but I am part of a medical family – so when there was a great need for nurses in the Second World War – I immediately signed up. All you needed back then was O & A levels & Matric.

My favourite meal would be a hearty French Dinner – and I would invite Florence Nightingale – to talk nursing – Winston Churchill – because he was a great orator – and Gordon Brown – to get a good talking to by Winston.

I love volunteering for Oxfam as it gives me a very interesting occupation – and I enjoy meeting lots of diverse people.

2006-01-24T13:50:00.000Z

meet………

DINA

I started volunteering at the Drury Lane shop in November 2005 in order to gain experience in working in a shop – and to improve my conversational & interpersonal skills – and to contribute back to the community.

My favourite group & album is U2’s Elevation.

The best book I’ve read so far was a biography on Elizabeth – the Virgin Queen.

I was born in Malaysia – but ideally would love to live in Madrid – Spain.

The time & place I am happiest is in my bed – right before I sleep.

When I grow up I want to be an accountant.

My favourite colour is purple – and my star sign is cancer.

For my favourite meal – which is anything with rice (!) – I would invite U2 – because they are so amazing – and my father, because he was the greatest man I know.

I love volunteering for Oxfam because I get to drink free coffee, meet new friends, and learn how to use the till!! (that last one was a joke!).

2006-01-19T14:36:00.000Z

meet………

SACHA

I have been a volunteer at both the Drury Lane & Earlham Street stores since January last year – in response to the Oxfam Tsunami Appeal.

If I had to choose from all the kinds of music I like – I would possibly go for anything from Jimi Hendix.

I don’t have a favourite piece of art as such – but very much like works by Picasso, Salvador Dali and MC Esher.

The best book I have ever read has got to be ‘The Alchemist’ by Paul Coelho.

I was born in Paris France – but would love to live anywhere – as long as it is close to the sea.

My favourite journey is to anywhere – providing the means of travelling is by train.
The time & place I have been happiest was growing up in the French countryside – and then in a house in London.

When I grow up I want to be an artist.

My favourite colour is green, I am an Aquarian – and my favourite meal is a full English breakfast.

Three people I would invite for a meal together would be Winston Churchill – who was an interesting character – my great-grandfather – who was an inventor (and I never met him) – and any well known scientist – for us all to debate the origins of the earth.

I love volunteering for Oxfam as I like the people I meet here – and I like old things (these two reasons are not related).

2006-01-19T14:16:00.000Z

meet……..

SANDRINE

I have been volunteering at this Drury Lane shop since September 2005 and joined as I wanted to do something useful with my time.

I can’t possibly choose my favourite piece of music – as there are so many of them.

I guess my favourite piece of art would be ‘The Waterlillies’ by Monet.

The best book I have ever read is definitely The Lord Of The Rings – by JRR Tolkien.

I was born in a suburb of Paris in France – but ideally would love to live in Sydney Australia.

My Favourite Journey? There are so many of them! And most are yet to come! But I really enjoyed travelling around Mexico.

The time & place I was the most happiest was when I was travelling around the world for a year – it was the most amazing and challenging experience ever!! I am happy wherever I am really.

When I grow up I would love to be a photographer/traveller and get to meet and photograph people from all over the world.

My favourite colour is green - and I am an Aquarius.

My favourite meal is anything Asian – especially Thai, Japanese & Indian.

For my most ideal meal I would invite my friends from France, Australia and Ireland – because I don’t often have the chance to see them – and it would be nice to gather them around a delicious Asian meal!

I love volunteering for Oxfam for the same reason I joined Oxfam – I love to do something useful for others with my spare time.

2006-01-19T14:03:00.000Z

meet………

CHIARA

I have been a volunteer in this Drury Lane store since July 2003.

I joined way back then as I had some free time during the week (I worked part-time at the time) – and thought it’d be a good idea to work for an organisation of volunteers. The flexibility of work also suits me now that I have a full time job from Mondays to Fridays – as I have now switched to Saturdays.

My favourite musical of all time has to be Mamma Mia.

And my best work of art is definitely ‘The Kiss’ by Klimt.

The best books I have ever read are – for a classic – ‘Wuthering Heights’ – and contemporary – ‘The God Of Small Things’ by Arundhati Roy.

I was born near Milan, in Italy – and I’m no too sure where I would ideally love to live – maybe Canada for a while – and Italy!!!

My favourite journey so far has been through Algeria – but I plan to travel through Latin America, India & the Middle East.

I have been happiest spending quality time with friends & loved ones - something that is sometimes taken for granted.

What do I want to be when I grow up?! GOOD QUESTION!!

Bordeaux and all the shades of blue are my favourite colours.

My star sign is a Libra.

My favourite meal? It’s easier to list what I don’t like!!

The people I would invite to a meal would be Edward Said – he may have had the solution. Michael Stipe (REM) & Souad Massi – I love their music. And then - all my friends around the world – I have not seen some in ages!!

I love volunteering for Oxfam because I hope I am contributing to making some people live a better life.

2006-01-19T13:58:00.000Z

meet…….

MARISA

I have been a volunteer here at the Drury Lane shop since June 2005 and joined as I wanted to volunteer in my spare time – and went for Oxfam as I like what Oxfam does.

The best book I have recently read has been Notes From a Small Island by Bill Bryson.

I was born in Lima in Peru – and ideally would love to live in a smallish town on the Spanish Coast.

My favourite journey is the excitement of going to a completely new & different place.

I don’t have a specific place & time when I was happiest – because I have been very happy many times – but the most recent was yesterday while lunching with colleagues at work.

What do I want to be when I grow up?! I will never grow up!!!

My favourite colour depends on the season - and my star sign is Aries.

My favourite meal really depends on my current mood – but I would always invite the people I have the most fun with.

I love volunteering for Oxfam because it makes me feel a better person!

2006-01-19T13:49:00.000Z

meet ........

RUT

I have been a volunteer here at the Drury Lane shop since early December 2005 – and joined to do whatever I can do – to help those less off than us.

My best album of all time is called Richord – which is a great piano album.

My favourite piece of art has to be the statue of David by Michael Angelo.
The best book I have read is a detective novel called Fulmos.

I was born in China – and ideally would love to live in Beijing. But my favourite journey so far – has been travelling through Spain.

The time & place I have been happiest was at home – with my parents, my girlfriend – and my dog.
When I grow up I would love to be a successful businessman.

My favourite colour is sky blue – and my favourite meal is anything with fish in it.

If I had to invite any people to a meal it would have to be Bill Gates – in order to build a business partnership – and Tony Blair – to learn more about leadership.

I love volunteering for Oxfam because I can meet many diverse people – and work with them as a team.

2006-01-19T13:20:00.000Z

meet……

ALEC

I have been volunteering in both the Earlham Street & Drury Lane shops since early December 2005 – and I joined as I wanted to get fashion industry experience in my favourite part of London – whilst doing something good for society.

The best movies I have seen have been ‘Battle Royale’ and ‘Deudas’.

I was born in London but ideally I would love to live in Japan, Malaysia, NYC, Mumbai …… the list goes on!!

My most favourite journey was my first trip to Japan.

The time & place I have been happiest was when I lived in Malaysia for 5 years – from 1996 to 2001.

When I grow up I want to be an international businessman or a diplomat.

My star sign is Aquarius – and my favourite meal is Unadon (grilled eel on rice).

I love volunteering for Oxfam because I can meet interesting people from all across the world.

THANKS OM!!

2006-01-18T16:23:00.000Z

I've just received this very touching email from Om - who very many of you met over the past couple of months. He has had to go back to LSE full time again - but might pop in on the occasional Saturday (a story so familiar to many of the Saturday crews).

Please also follow the link to his blogsite - which is very well written and humorous - but especially the Happy New Year entry. Perhaps it strikes a chord with some of you?!

Om - please know that I have appreciated all the very hard work you have put in for Oxfam - and yes - you have made a world of difference.

Dear Sona,

I'm sorry I couldn't see you last saturday. Classes have now started at the LSE and regardless of much I had planned beforehand, I find myself buried under the workload. I have also begun to search for a part-time job. As and when I get time though, I hope it will be okay if I can drop in sometime and do some work.

I also think I must stress how much my work at the store over the last month has come to mean to me. I had never really thought that I could make any bit of a difference on my own, but these days I feel as if I have done so. I hope you can take a moment and have a look at my web-log ( spaces.msn.com/members/Om87) at the entry 'Happy New Year' to see how much better I feel about having worked with you.

Best wishes always,
Om

Letter from Chris Coe to all Shop Volunteers

2006-01-12T11:42:00.000Z

As most of you will already know - Chris Coe is the Trading Director for our shops. That means he is responsible for all & everything to do with the shops we love & work in. Here is an extract from his invitation to meet up with him:

" Dear Shop Volunteers

I want to invite you all to one of this year's Oxfam Live events. If you haven't attended an Oxfam Live (known as Forums until 2004), their format and focus on Oxfam's work have rightly made them very popular in recent years. I have written to your shop manager asking that your shop is represented, in as large numbers as possible, at this year's Oxfam Live events.

The work and support of the shop volunteers is vital to the achievement of Oxfam's mission. The day's proceedings start with a 90-minute session exclusively designed for you to exchange your opinions and to ensure your voices are heard. A senior manager from the Trading Management Team will attend each of these sessions to listen directly to your views. This session honours our commitment to consult directly with volunteers; please note that it is not open to paid shop staff.

A short break will follow, during which shop volunteers who have attended the 'Talking Shop' session - and are staying on for the main Oxfam Live event (all of you, I hope!) are welcome to enjoy the food and drinks that will be provided for you.

Oxfam staff, campaigners, donors and potential supporters will then join us at the beginning of the main Oxfam Live event, for a stimulating exchange of news, ideas and views. Everyone can choose to attend all or part of the event. It would be great if you could attend the whole Oxfam Live event, but you should feel free to come for as long as your commitments allow.

As well as the opportunity at 'Talking Shop' to air issues specific to shop volunteering, the day is your chance to find out how your time and energy enable Oxfam to overcome poverty in the 70 countries in which we work - helped by an international Oxfam programme officer, who will present a picture of our ongoing work.

We look forward to meeting you at Oxfam Live - you will meet volunteers and staff from other shops, and other Oxfam supporters in your area, and have a wonderful opportunity to create a network of like-minded people who are all working to make the world a more safe and just place for everyone in it.

Best wishes

Chris Coe
Trading Director

6 January 2006 "

This year's date for this amazing event for us here in London is the evening of 18th May. I know it sounds like a long way off - but it's best to get it into your diary now - and of course I will remind you about it a few more times before the event - through this blog, the shop message book (under the till), by chatting to you - and the notice boards. The venue has not yet been confirmed - but in the past it has been pretty central - so quite close to our shop.

Right - I will put up a notice list in both shops notice boards - please feel free to add you name to mine if you want to attend - it's always a great night out!!

Many Thanks!!

2006-01-03T13:40:00.000Z

A massive thankyou to Natsumi & Mariko for coming in to the Drury Lane shop on the 2nd January (yesterday) and doing such a beautiful spring clean.

I am sure you the rest of the crew will agree that it is a pleasure to start the new year off with such a stunning looking shop!!

And even though the shop was not open while they hoovered, scrubbed, shined, spit & polished, tidied and decorated - they still kept an eye out for donators taking advantage of the congestion zone suspension to bring unwanted Xmas presents in.

Natsumi & Mariko - you have given us the biggest incentive to make sure we all carry on keeping the shops looking great all year long!

Thank you!!

SPARE A THOUGHT FOR DAVID

2005-12-20T13:57:00.000Z

This is the coldest time of the year - and yet David still goes outside every Saturday - and gets our shops shining beautifully.

When we arrive for the start of the week on Mondays - both the shops look stunning. Not only are all the windows gleaming inside & out - but the signs, walls & sidewalks have been scrubbed down as well.

Obviously doing all this is okay in summer - hard work - but sometimes enjoyable. But for most of the year - David has to clean outside in very cold conditions. He swears he loves it - but I have heard him mutter darkly sometimes.

David - please know that we all appreciate all the hours you put into the shop - sorting out our blocked toilets, blown light bulbs, loose snags, etc - but most of all we really love having beautiful shops to work in.

THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN

2005-12-15T13:18:00.000Z

Bill has just sent through a great picture of the party at the re-opening of the Drury Lane shop! It's a great shot of Mona looking very glamorous - but then also of Beyza who volunteers on Saturdays in Drury Lane - and Nadia - who started out in Carnarby Street - and when we closed that down - she transferred over to Drury Lane before going home to Hong Kong. You can also spot the top of Abduls head!

Thanks for this great shot Bill. Please let Bill be an encouragement to the rest of you to send any photos to our Blogsite for everybody to see - especially our just-departed French contingent!!

And speaking of parties - Van & Maureen are in the process of finalising the end-of-year party to be held in a restaurant in the Elephant & Castle in the first week of 2006. It will be a buffet meal appealing to both veggies and carnivores.

Check out this space for further news!!

Simon is here for a couple of weeks.

2005-12-15T12:32:00.000Z

As you all know - Simon has been working on the East Coast of Sri Lanka for about a year now - helping re-build schools that were demolished by the Boxing Day Tsunami.

But he has just popped back for a couple of weeks holiday - and is doing the rounds. If you want to hook up with him - please tell Sona - and we will arrange a day where we can all have a pizza and catch up with all the latest news.

Also I have asked him if he can send this blog-site occasional musings. For those of you lucky enough to get his fantastic emails - you will already know what a treat it is to read the truth about the NGO response to the disaster (and the Pakiistan Earthquake).

Simon - please have a great break - recharge every battery - chill out - and then speed back to continue all your excellent work. We all miss you enormously - but it's reassuring to know that there is someone who genuinely cares about people in amongst all that chaos.

peace

2005-12-06T14:09:00.000Z

Just to remind everybody the the steamers are HOT!!

Please take care when using them. Never let the actual steam end be close to you.

It is HOT!!

And please never touch the silver end - as it is HOT!!

Once again - the Steamer gets HOT!!

Can you tell I've just burnt myself?!

2005-11-25T15:31:00.000Z

meet…….

CHARLES

I have been a volunteer at the Drury Lane shop since 14 November 2005 and I joined in order to improve my English & meet people who come from many different countries.

I like all kinds of music – but my favourite piece of art is the Joconde.

My best books to read are all of the Agatha Christie books.

I was born in Nancy in France – but ideally would love to live on a sea island.
I have not travelled much – so my best journey has been here to the Unirted Kingdom.

The times I have been happiest were when I meet new, interresting and nice people.

My favourite colour is grey – my star sign is Capricorn and my best meals are chicken, pasta, & for the best meal I would love to invite my whole family – all five of us.

I love volunteering for Oxfam because the people are very interresting and very nice – they are from many different countries – and each of them has different stories to tell.

Charles has now gone back to France. In the month he spent with us - he impressed us all with his great enthusiasm & hard work!! Charles - you are welcome back anytime!!

2005-11-25T14:50:00.000Z

This is just another reminder to everyone who wants to get a little more involved in Oxfam's campaigning activities.

On the right hand side you will find a link to the Central London Oxfam Campaigns Group!

This amazing bunch of people meet in the Drury Lane shop on the second Tuesday of each month @ 7.00pm - after we have finished trading. Here they plan all kinds of incredible events, cunning stunts and beautiful happenings. The campaigns are varied - but the common theme is exactly the same as ours in the shops - we all want to alleviate poverty - wherever it is.

Just have a look at some of the photos and you'll get a sliver of flavour as to what they do.

So if you're interested in joining the group - simply click on the link & get in touch. Or better still - volunteer on any second Tuesday afternoon shift in the Drury Lane shop - and hang around after closing.

Have fun!

Booooo Hooooooooooo!!

2005-11-25T14:18:00.000Z

Today is a very sad day for all of us in the two shops!! After months of excellent friendship from Yuko - we are waving goodbye to her. She is returning to Japan - and we are all going to miss her terrribly.

Yuko - in many ways you were so perfect for Oxfam:

Your exquisite fashion sense was an inspiration to all the customers
Your friendship was a joy for us all to recieve
Your SMILE is still etched in all our minds
Your encouragement led to many more new recruits - both from your school - and by converting shoppers into volunteers
Your HARD work put most of us to shame
Your dedication to Oxfam and it's aims & objectives was faultless
Your kindness was a blessing to those who needed a warm shoulder

BUT MOST OF ALL

YOU -

JUST YOU

were a pleasure to work alongside for ALL of us!

We wish you and Pablo all the very best for the future.

2005-11-25T13:48:00.000Z

meet…….

ALAIN

I have been a volunteer at the Drury Lane Oxfam shop since the 14 November 2005. I joined as a work placement trainee – and as I have to work free of charge – I prefer to do it for a charitable organisation.

My best album of all time is Woodstock (1969).

In my spare time I like listening to music and surfing the web.

My favourite book is Les Justes by Camus.

I was born in France but ideally I would love to live somewhere in Africa.
My favourite journey so far has been to Ivory Coast, which is where I have been the happiest. I spent my military service there teaching textile designs to locals.

My favourite colour is blue and my star sign is Aquarius.

My favourite meal has got to be grilled lobster.

The three people I would invite to a meal would be my father, mother & wife – because my father has passed away – but he was fond of a good meal.
I love volunteering for Oxfam because it’s an international organisation which fights poverty everywhere – and has no religious or political ideologies.

Alain is now back in France. Alain - thanks for all the great political conversations you had with us - we all learnt so much from you. Please visit when you're next in London.

2005-11-25T13:41:00.000Z

meet..........

CORALIE

I have been a volunteer in the Drury Lane Oxfam shop since November 2005 and joined to give my free time and meet lots of new people. I would also love to improve my English.

My two favourite musicians of all time are Edith Piaf & Beethoven. My best kind of art is architectural design.

The best book I have ever read is "Monsieur Maussene" by Daniel Pennac which is a French book. I have not yet read an English book.

I was born in Avrandes in Normandy, France – but don’t really mind where I live – but for the moment I like London. My favourite journey so far has been through Romania.

I can’t think of where & when I have been the happiest – I try to be happy all the time.

When I grow up I want to be a good & famous Quantity Surveyor.

My favourite colour is white and my star sign is Scorpio.

I don’t really have a favourite meal – I just like to cook & eat lots of food.

I love volunteering for Oxfam because it’s fun and cool – as I can meet a lot of people & I am spending my free time helping others.

Coralie has now left us for a major international company - but will help out on the odd spare Saturday morning. Congratulations Coralie - on your fantastic new job. If ever we need a top class quantity surveyor - we all know who to call!!

2005-11-25T13:21:00.000Z

meet……

AUDREY

I volunteer in the Drury Lane shop – and have been here since 14 November 2005. I joined as I think it is a good idea to help the poor – and also to improve my English.

My favourite group are the Red Hot Chilli Peppers – but I like listening – and singing along with all kinds of music.

The best book I’ve read was Carrie by Stephen King.

I was born in Nancy, France – but would love to live in Annecy (also France).

My favourite journey so far has been here to London – as it’s the perfect choice to perfect my English.

The place I have been most happy was with my boyfriend on holiday in Annecy in 2004.

My favourite colour is blue and my star sign is Aries (Belier in French).

My favourite meal is the pizza cooked by my Italian grandmother.

For my most perfect meal I would love to invite three poor people – because they would need it – and it would great to make them happy.

I love volunteering for Oxfam because everybody here is happy. I like the customers as well because they can buy cheap things & I like the volunteers who make the world better – and I like the fact that poor people get help from Oxfam.

Audrey has returned to France - and has just got engaged!! Congratulations to you both - please let us know any future plans - especially if the honeymoon somehow involves London.

2005-11-23T13:33:00.000Z

Many happy returns to Monica - who has the fantastic honour to be our longest serving volunteer. (But hey - we have an arrangement not to mention any dates or numbers of years.)

Monica - please have a fantastic year - and we'll all get together again same time next year.

Happy Birthday!!

2005-11-10T12:58:00.001Z

meet………

YUKO

I started volunteering in Drury Lane Oxfam shop in September 2004 – mainly to improve my English.

My favourite pop group is a Japanese group called – Mr. Children.

My favourite artist is And Warhol.

The best book I’ve read so far is a Japanese novel called Yokubou.

I was born in Japan – but would ideally love to live in Amsterdam, Holland.

My favourite journey is going to places I have never been to before.

I have been happiest eating really delicious food with my boyfriend.

When I grow up I want to be a very happy woman.

My favourite colour is pink – and I am an Aries.

My favourite meal is Sushi (of course) and ideally - whenever I eat it - I like to invite my boyfriends family – Louis, Margarita & Havier – because they treat me very well when I am in their home.

I love volunteering for Oxfam because I can meet people from many different countries – and have great conversations with them.

Yuko (and Havier) have now settled back in Japan.

Yuko - keep rocking on over there in Yokohama - the world needs many more peace campaigners!!
Havier - how do the locals like your world famous Paella dish?
We wish both of you all the very best for your future - let us know how many babies you both make okay?!

2005-11-10T12:55:00.000Z

meet………

YOSHIKO

I have been volunteering in Drury Lane Oxfam shop since February 2004 – and I joined because I wanted to meet new people to make friends with – and to practice speaking English. I also wanted to do something helpful.

The music I like best is most tracks by Abba.

My favourite work of art is the Statue of Liberty.

The best book I have ever read is Wuthering Heights.

I was born in Hokkaido Japan – but ideally I would love to live in Mallorca, Spain.

I am happiest when I am chatting with my friends – it could be anywhere.

My favourite colours are pink & yellow and my star sign is Cancer.

I love relaxing and eating nice food – especially Japanese food – very especially deep fried prawn okonomiyaki. The best people to have a meal with are my husband and friends – because I like them.

I love volunteering for Oxfam because everyone is kind and nice – and I also want to do something to help people – even though I can only do something small.

2005-11-10T12:53:00.000Z

meet……….

VAN

I have been a volunteer in the Drury Lane & Earlham Street Oxfam shops since April 2005.

I joined as a volunteer as I wanted to help people less fortunate than me.

My favourite singer has got to be Frank Sinatra.

My favourite work of art is definitely the Sunflowers by Van Gogh.

The best book I have read is the Autobiography of Lance Armstrong (4 times Tour De France winner & testicular cancer campaigner).

I was born in Vietnam and it is my favourite place to live – but the best journey I have had has been around Amsterdam in Holland.

My two favourite colours are white & black.

For my ideal meal – I would love to eat Japanese food – and invite Yoshiko, Isobel and Harumi (fellow volunteers) – because they are all very friendly.

I love volunteering for Oxfam because I like working for charity and helping people.

2005-11-10T12:50:00.000Z

meet…….

SIMON

……. but you can call me Benjy – as my surname is Benjamin.

I have been volunteering in the Drury Lane Oxfam shop on Saturdays since the 15th August 2005.

I joined to make a difference in my life – and other people’s lives.

My best album of all time is definitely Queens – A Night At The Opera.

My favourite work of art has to be The Laughing Cavalier by Frans Hals.

And the best book I’ve read is The Day Of The Jackal by Frederick Forsythe.

I was born in Luton in Bedfordshire – but ideally I would love to live in Williamsburg in Virginia – in the USA.

My favourite journey is going to a port or airport – to go on holiday.

The time I have been happiest was in my year out after A Levels.

I never want to grow up – I’m just a kid at heart.

My favourite colour is blue – so it should come as no surprise that I am an Aquarius.

For my favourite meal of pasta – I would invite Hitler, Stalin & Pol Pot to ask them why they caused so much misery and devastation to people’s lives.

I love volunteering for Oxfam because it is a place where I can meet my friends and help others at the same time.

2005-11-10T12:47:00.000Z

meet……..

RAN

I started volunteering in the Drury Lane Oxfam shop in August 2005.

I joined because it’s a really great job & and I can do something which may help others.

The best book I have ever read has got to be Pride & Prejudice by Jane Austen.

I was born in Zhengzhou in The Peoples Republic of China – but ideally I would love to live in Beijing – the capital of PR China.

My favourite journey so far has been travelling through Europe.

I am happiest when I’m at home with my family & friends.

When I grow up I want to be a nutritionist.

My favourite colours are light & dark blue.

For my favourite Chinese meal I would love to invite all my friends to celebrate my birthday.

I love volunteering for Oxfam because what I do will help a lot of people.

2005-11-10T12:44:00.000Z

meet………

RALPH

I joined the Drury Lane Oxfam shop in July 2005.

I mainly joined because I wanted to give my spare time to a charity.

I was born in Gravesend – in Kent – South East England.

My two favourite journeys so far have been down the west of the United States of America – and in Switzerland.

The time & place I have been the happiest was around 1987 – 1990 – living near where I am now in Victoria & Pimlico, London.

My star sign is Taurus – and my favourite colours are Blue & yellow.

2005-11-10T12:38:00.000Z

meet………

NATSUMI

I joined Oxfam in Drury Lane in April ’05 because I am very interested in voluntary work – and also I love to meet lots of people from different countries.

My favourite song is Every Breath You Take by The Police.

I love reading Yukio Mishima’s books.

I was born in Hiroshima in Japan – but would love to live in Hawaii.

My favourite journey at the moment is anywhere around the UK.

I am happiest - here & now!!

When I grow up I want to be a great woman.

My two favourite colours are pink & yellow – and my star sign is Virgo.

I love volunteering for Oxfam because all the other volunteers are very kind – and the work is fun for me to do!!!

2005-11-10T12:32:00.000Z

meet………

MIKI

I started in the Earlham Street Oxfam shop in July ’05.

I have always been interested in volunteering – so in my free time I chose to come to Oxfam and help out.

My favourite artist is Picasso.

I was born in Japan – but ideally I would love to live here in London.

My favourite journey is always one near any seaside.

The place & time where I am happiest is on Saturday mornings – in bed.

My favourite colour is White – and my star sign is Sagittarius.

I love volunteering for Oxfam because I want to make poverty history!!

Miki has now taken that charming smile all the way back to Japan. Miki we all wish you the best of luck with the new fashion venture - become very famous - and then return to visit us as a celeb!!

2005-11-10T12:28:00.000Z

meet………

MAUREEN

…….. but you can call me Mo if you want.

I have been volunteering here at the Drury Lane Oxfam shop since June 2005 – and I joined because I enjoy helping people & making sure all my customers are happy in what they buy.

My favourite musical is Gone With The Wind – but as I’m not too keen on reading books – I prefer curling up with a good video.

I was born in Birmingham – but ideally I would love to live somewhere out in the country.

My favourite journey is coming into work here in Oxfam – and that’s where I am happiest.

My favourite colours are lilac & lemon – and I’m a Taurus.

For my ideal meal I would have Indian & West Indian food – and invite my boss and his family – for making me very happy in my work.

I love volunteering for Oxfam because the people always have a smile & kind word to say to you. Also – a few of the customers and I have exchanged phone numbers – and we have become good friends.

2005-11-10T12:25:00.000Z

meet………

MARIKO

I volunteer in the Drury Lane Oxfam shop – and I started in August 2004.

I decided to join Oxfam when my school started a social program with Sóna – and I wanted to improve my English even more. But now I volunteer because of all the fun we have – and of course – to meet new friends.

My favourite artist is Dali & and the best book I’ve read so far is Sat.

I was born in Yokohama in Japan – but I love travelling around Italy.

I guess the place I’m happiest is in my room – in the evening.

When I grow up – I want to be a fashion designer.

I can’t decide which is my favourite colour – I really don’t know……. I’d have to say……… All of them!!!

My star sign is Aries.

For the most ideal meal – I would invite all my friends – because they love my dinner. My favourite meal is anything with Chicken.

I love volunteering for Oxfam because I can speak to people from many different countries, meet new friends – and have lots of fun!!!

2005-11-10T12:20:00.000Z

meet………

KUMI

I started volunteering For Oxfam Earlham Street in April ’05.

I love Oxfam shops for many reasons - but I joined because – mostly I’m into second hand fashion – so I am very happy to work here.

My best album of all time is the first one by Franz Ferdinand.

My favourite artist is Jean Brands.

I love every book Juzo Itami has ever written.

I was born in Japan – but would love to live here in London.

At the moment – my favourite journey is to the hometown of new friends I meet here in London.

When I grow up I want to be a nice mother.

My star sign is Aquarius & my favourite colour is cream.

My favourite meal is pasta with mushrooms.

I love volunteering for Oxfam because I like to shop where I am volunteering. I love meeting new people and doing very creative window displays.

2005-11-10T12:16:00.000Z

meet………

HARUMI

……….. but you can call me Haru Haru.

I have been volunteering in the Drury Lane and Edgware Road shops since July 2005.

I joined because I wanted to meet a lot of people and practice my English – but now I absolutely LOVE working here.

My best bit of music is Mozart’s 40th Symphony – and my favourite book is a Japanese one called Snow Country.

I was born in Japan – but ideally I would love to live in New York.

My favourite hobby is playing the electric organ.

When I grow up I want to be a Japanese teacher.

My favourite colours are pink & black – and I am a Capricorn.

For best meal to eat is sushi and for my best meal companions – I’d invite all my friends I have made here in Oxfam.

I love volunteering for Oxfam because I can practice my English all day long!

2005-11-10T12:11:00.000Z

meet……

DAVID

……… but you can call me Grouttie (it’s a plumbing/DIY thing!)

I have been a volunteer in the Drury Lane shop since January 1996.

I joined because I have always wanted to help others to live a better and happier life.

My favourite group is Kansas – they’re an American band with a wicked fiddler in the line-up.

The best book I have ever read has got to be The Bible.

I was born in Dullwich here in London – but could live anywhere as long as it’s wonderful.

When I grow up I would love to be a happier person.

I guess I have no real favourite colour – or maybe they are all my favourite – and my star sign is Cancer.

My favourite meal is spaghetti bolognaise.

I love volunteering for Oxfam because it does very important work – and I’m very glad to be a part of it.

2005-11-10T12:08:00.000Z

meet……….

CAILAH

I have been volunteering in the Drury Lane Oxfam shop on Saturdays since October 2005.

I joined to do something useful with my spare time & I am also quite interested in development work.

I am a very indecisive person – so can’t decide what my best music & artist is – but the best book I’ve ever read is Memoirs Of A Geisha.

I was born in Sherjah in the United Arab Republic (near Dubai) – but would ideally love to live in New York – or….. Tokyo – or…… London (told you I was indecisive).

When I am older I would like to do something useful (not an investment banker!)

My favourite colour is pink – and I am an Aries.

My best meal is anything with chocolate in it.

I love volunteering for Oxfam because I love organising things – as sad as that sounds!

2005-10-25T22:29:00.000+01:00

Hi there

I’m trying this additional method of communication to get us all singing the same song.

This will not replace the message book, meetings, 1:1’s, cups of teas, smoke breaks, notice boards, etc – but will be just one more tool to give us ALL a bit more information!

Please feel free to add any comments to any of the topics – simply follow the instructions – and dive right on in.

As is the case inside the shop - the more of us participating in this additional method of spreading ideas, stories, jokes, news, etc – the better for all of us. But please remember that not everyone in the shop is internet literate – so please try and duplicate your contribution in the shop message book.

Enjoy.

Peace
Sóna

2005-10-25T15:51:00.000+01:00

meet........

BEATRICE

I have been a volunteer in both the Drury Lane & Earlham Street Oxfam shops since February 2001.

I had been a customer for about 20 year – and then I saw an advert for volunteers – and I snapped up the chance immediately.

I don’t have a best musical album – and I don’t understand art – but the best book I’ve read recently was about the Third Reich called the Mastership Game.

I was born in Argentina – but ideally I would love to live in England or Scotland.

My favourite journey is the one coming in to work here at Oxfam.

The places I have been happiest were in Cyprus & here in London.

My favourite colour is yellow – and my star sign is Cancer.

For my favourite meal of shepherds pie & roast turkey – I would invite Craig McLean (because he is a good friend) – Sean Connery (because his life story is great) – and Cherry Booth (because she is an outstanding woman).

I love volunteering for Oxfam because the shops are good for everyone!!

2005-10-25T15:27:00.000+01:00

meet.......

Daniela

…… but you can call me Dani.

I started volunteering in The Drury Lane Oxfam shop in August 2005 – because I wanted to try and improve my English – and also because I wanted to work in my free time.

My favourite album of all time is Revolucion de Amor by Mana – a Mexican group.

My favourite artists/architects are Gaudi & Calatrava.

The best book I have so far read – is a Portuguese book called Capitais ai Areia.

I was born in Santiago – Chile – but ideally would love to live in Mexico.

My favourite journey is to any beach.

I am happiest when I am with my family & friends – and when I can do what I like.

When I grow up – I want to be a good architect and be happy.

My favourite colour is yellow and I am a Gemini.

My favourite meal is bife and chips – and I would love to eat this with my parents and best friend – because all are very important to me.

I love volunteering for Oxfam because I can meet very different people – and I can help people to maybe build a better future.

Daniela has now returned to Mexico - with a much larger English vocabulary - and many fond memories of the Drury Lane shop. She sends all her love - and her postal adress is in the shop message book if anyone wants to catch up.