Former teacher surprised by Everton legends

A dedicated volunteer received a surprise visit from two Everton Football Club legends after being named Volunteer of the Year by the Club’s official charity.

Mark, a former teacher, was discussing his experience supporting Everton in the Community (EitC) during an interview for Volunteers’ Week (1 June – 7 June) when ambassadors Ian Snodin and Graham ‘Diamond’ Stuart burst in to present him with the award.

Diamond told a shocked Mark:

“Sorry to interrupt, but it’s for a very good reason.

“When we talk about the Everton family, we’re talking about people like you – selfless, dedicated and always there when somebody needs help.

“That’s why we’re here to tell you that you’re Everton in the Community’s Volunteer of the Year. Congratulations – it’s thoroughly deserved.”

Mark’s connection with the charity stretches back two decades. It began when the SEND school he worked at partnered with EitC through its disability project.

The experience inspired him to “give back” to the community. This lead him to volunteer across several EitC programmes, including The Blue Base Pantry. He also supported the dementia support initiative Pass on the Memories and EitC’s programme combatting social isolation, Stand Together.

In a speech to fellow volunteers, Mark said:

“I’d like to dedicate this to my father, who I lost in September, who said in his typical Yorkshire way, ‘Don’t complain about community and society unless you’re prepared to get up and do something about it’.”

After receiving the award, Mark took Ian and Graham to The Blue Base Pantry. This is an initiative set up to combat food insecurity in Liverpool 4.

Kevin Tarpey, Blue Pantry assistant, described Mark as “integral” to the running of the scheme which takes place every Thursday.

He added:

“His commitment and everything about him really – the way he interacts with our other volunteers and participants – is just first class. He’ll do anything for you.”

Mark is just one of more than 160 fantastic volunteers supporting over 50 Everton in the Community programmes.

Every volunteer plays a major role in helping Everton’s official charity continue building stronger communities and brighter futures in L4 and beyond.

To learn more about volunteering opportunities at EitC, click here.