Leeds Rhinos Chief Executive, Gary Hetherington, has been giving a helping hand at a new community centre in LS16.
Hetherington has been volunteering at the Welcome In Community Café, which was recently renovated by voluntary organisation OPAL, which supports older people and aims to provide a safe, accessible and affordable community space for residents in Leeds 16.
The Leeds Rhinos Chief Executive attended the opening of the centre, which is based in the building, formerly The Bedford Arms, back in February to launch a new partnership with the community centre and Leeds Rhinos Foundation, and since then has been giving up his time to volunteer in the Café, taking orders, serving food and cleaning.
Speaking about his support, OPAL CEP, Ailsa Rhodes, said: “The fact that Gary Hetherington has also offered to volunteer in the Welcome In Community Café is absolutely fabulous – we know how busy he is and consequently, how precious his time is.
“Reg, aged 95yr old was delighted to be Gary’s first customer. Gary spent time chatting with Reg and making sure he felt welcome to the café – that’s exactly what a Community Café is all about.
“We look forward to seeing Gary back behind the servery on Wednesday 19th April between 9am – 2pm.”
If you are interested in volunteering at the Welcome In sally-anne@opal-project.org.uk or visit
http://www.opal-project.org.uk/volunteering