CSSC Volunteer Profile Ian Allen

What is your proudest moment/memory of being a CSSC Volunteer?

The great sense of achievement gained from organising a very successful first competition staged by the Regional Council. It was an all-day Indoor 5-a-side Football tournament held at the Haverhill Sports Centre and involved 30 teams from across the Region. The early stages of the event were run on a league basis with league winners and runners-up progressing to the knock-out stages. The event marked a significant milestone in the development of the Regional Council which now provides a wide range of sporting and social events in its annual calendar.

How did you get involved in volunteering for CSSC?

Having been organiser of the Valuation Office's regional cricket team for a number of years I was invited to become a founder member of the Eastern Regional Council for CSSC in 1972. I was subsequently appointed Regional Honorary Secretary and during my time in that role I organised many varied events and launched a successful Regional Newsletter. Some years later I was appointed Regional Chairman.

What do you do as a CSSC Volunteer?

I chair meetings/workshops/conferences of the Regional Council and its Executive Committee (for which I also act as secretary). I represent the Region at National Conference, Regional Officers' conferences/meetings and other national events. I also attend and present prizes at Regional events and personally organise events including General Knowledge Quizzes. In addition I consult CSSC Head Office on issues raised by the Regional Council and Executive Committee.

What are the best bits about volunteering for CSSC (and the worst bits)?

One of the best bits about volunteering is the long-standing friendships developed with my colleagues on the Regional Council (especially the Hon Secretary and Hon Treasurer) and elsewhere in Head Office and the CSSC. I also feel that my involvement in organising many different types of event for CSSC has given me great enjoyment and helped develop skills that have served me well in other aspects of my life. As I am retired and have time to devote to CSSC I honestly cannot think of any downsides to volunteering – perhaps those feeling the pressure of full time employment may think differently. 

What has kept you involved as a volunteer with CSSC?

The long-standing and close friendship developed with fellow officers on the Regional Council has been a significant factor in my continuing involvement as a volunteer with CSSC. In addition, I derive much satisfaction in being able to pass on the wide experience that I have gained over many years in CSSC to newcomers to the organisation.

What would you say to other people who might want to volunteer with CSSC?

My message to anyone wondering whether to become a CSSC volunteer is; do not hesitate. Make the decision to become a CSSC volunteer and you will find the opportunity and freedom to help others in CSSC make the most of their membership whilst also deriving great personal satisfaction and reward for all your own efforts.