This week we speak to Vanessa McGeehan for our #memberinfocus feature: “The Challenges and Opportunities of 2020”. 

Q1. If you could describe the year 2020 in one word, what would it be

Unforgettable

Q2. What was happening in your life when the pandemic struck?

When the pandemic struck, I started my new job as a Marketing Executive and was planning a holiday to Spain. At the start of the year if you told me this is what 2020 would be like, I would not have believed you!

Q3. Why and when did you decide to get involved with community-based support?

I volunteer regularly throughout the year and would always see where I could help out. As I was stuck in the house being furloughed, I wanted to something worthwhile with my time, rather than watching Netflix flat out. My partner knows the founder Sarah personally and put us in contact as he knew I was interested in volunteering. Meeting Sarah over zoom was the best thing to happen this year and I am proud to be a part of the amazing team with Community Calling.

Q4. What is the biggest challenge you have faced since the world went into lockdown?

The biggest challenge I have faced this year was not seeing my parents for three months. I usually see them at least twice a month however as they are both front line workers, they thought it would be best for my sister and I to isolate in our own homes. This has taught me to never take time with my family for granted!

Q5. Are you excited about any opportunities that have arisen this year?

I am extremely excited about Community Calling and the opportunities that will arise this year. Each week there is something new and exciting to work on and we get to help more and more people every time. I am excited to see how Community Calling will grow in the coming months as more members of the community have come forward to volunteer. We have an amazing team and I can’t wait to see it expand!

Q6. How are things looking for the remainder of 2020? 

For the remainder of 2020 I am nervous about the winter in case the coronavirus continues to get worse and I am also worried about the thought of lock down again. Although these worries are in the back of my mind, I continue to look forward to the good things that are ahead. I am excited to get back to work and to continue volunteering with Community Calling. I know that whatever happens I have an amazing support between my family, friends and Community Calling and this helps to ease my worries a lot!