This new feature of the site allows members to submit their stories of how OIR Ayr has benefited them. Entries wont appear immediately as each is examined and have to be passed as genuine before they appear. Information on e-mail addresses or web sites don't appear though I may contact you through your e-mail address if anything needs clarification.
As a member of OIR since March 1996, I know that I speak for many members when I say that OIR has provided a lifeline, as it did for me when I was widowed in January 1996.
A busy life in teaching, bringing up a family and latterly being a carer for many years of a clinically sick husband, meant that I had to find something to do.
OIR answered that need. I initially joined Bob Smillie’s Tuesday Walking Group, finding there a sense of freedom, exercise and friendly companionship. That led to enjoying 9 years of Walking Weeks in lovely Galloway and Border towns.
In 1998, I was invited to join the Executive Committee. After 1 year on the EC I was appointed Honorary Secretary. In 2003 I became Vice-Chairman and took over the Chair at the AGM in 2005.
A set of unusual circumstances resulted in me being in the Chair for two spells – until April 2009. I enjoyed my duties although I found I did not have as much time to take part in other activities within the organisation.
I am keen to put OIR to the forefront in Scotland, as a superb example of a self-help organisation for retired people. By dint of filling in application forms (plus a little bit of cheek) OIR has won several awards in recent years.
In 2007, we won the Age Concern Scotland Group of the Year Award – plus £1000.
In 2006, we won the Nationwide Building Society National Award for Voluntary Endeavour – plus £100.
In 2008, we were National Finalists in the Herald Society Awards for Voluntary Work in the 65+ Category.
We await, with fingers crossed, for the results of the Herald Society Awards results for 2009, and an application has now been sent for the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Endeavour – 2010.
My friend Hector and I have led Saturday Walks (February to September) each year since 1999. Usually 30-40 members join us to walk in locations all over the south of Scotland.
In addition to exercising my body, I exercise my mind by being Group Leader of a Social Sciences class which is now beginning its forth year in Ayr College. The college provided the tutor, OIR supplies the class – all happy to discuss psychology, sociology, philosophy or ‘the price of fish’ on a Wednesday morning.
OIR has been my life for so long – it was a new beginning – keeping me active physically, mentally and socially.
Fortunately good health, much appreciated, enables me to continue enjoying all that I do – including trying to repay what I have received, by continuing on the Executive Committee.
I believe that OIR is truly unique – helping to maintain a healthy mind in a healthy body.
