Jack volunteers twice a week with Romsey Mill in the Charity Shop on Mill Road.

Jack first joined Romsey Mill’s Aspire when he was 15. That was 15 years ago. 

Back then, he was a very different person – quiet and timid.

However, Aspire quickly became a place where he could begin to grow.  As he would later describe it, it was “a place for young people to express themselves”, and for Jack, it became exactly that.

He attended Aspire for four years, from the age of 15 to 19, forming friendships that have stood the test of time.  

“I made some good friendships that I am still in touch with,” he reflects.  

The smaller group setting meant that everyone was known, valued and included. There were trips and shared experiences that left a lasting impression - residentials to the coast, and a memorable day trip to Hunstanton, full of positive connections. 

Among the people who shaped his journey, Avril stands out as his favourite youth worker, someone who supported and encouraged him during those formative years. With that support, Jack began to find his confidence.

Not long after leaving Aspire, Jack began volunteering in the Romsey Mill Charity Shop.  

What started as a small step turned into a remarkable commitment - he has now been volunteering at our charity shop for nine years.  He was the first Aspire volunteer to take on this role, paving the way for others to follow.

Over time, he has taken people under his wing, encouraging and guiding them just as he was once supported, showing great leadership skills.

More recently, Jack discovered another life-changing outlet: running.  

After a particularly difficult year, he found himself searching for something positive - and within that search he found running.  Within just two months, he had completed his first half marathon distance. 

This first milestone was only the beginning.  

Since then, Jack has completed 50 half marathons distances - a testament to his dedication and resilience.  

Running has become more than just a hobby; it’s a vital part of how he manages life’s challenges.  It gives him focus, lifts his mental health, and provides a healthy, positive outlet when things feel difficult.

In March, Jack ran his first official half marathon, for Romsey Mill, running in the Cambridge Half Marathon.  He completed the circuit in an impressive 1 hour 49 minutes.

“It was a really great experience,” he recalls. “Everyone cheering, I was high-fiving kids …  it felt like being a celeb.”

Jack continues to set goals and push forward. He’s since completed the London Landmarks Half earlier this month, in 1 hour 45 minutes, and is looking forward to running in the Newmarket Half Marathon in May.

Looking back, it’s clear Aspire didn’t just give Jack something to do.

Aspire gave him confidence, community, and a foundation to build on.  Jack’s story is one of growth and resilience, with the lasting impact of the right support at the right time.  

Jackj's role as a Charity Shop volunteer enables him to give something back, and continue to grow in confidence, skills and character. 

Romsey Mill has a range of volunteer opportunities to suit availability, skills, and interests.

So whether you fancy helping at a youth group, learning to make lattes, using your flair for art or sport to teach skills, or you simply love helping others, we have opportunities in numerous locations. 

Get in contact on 01223 213162 or [email protected]

Donate today

You can also donate to Romsey Mill's Aspire Appeal 2026 via our appeal Just Giving page.