Community champion role is just perfect for our Enniskillen colleague Simon
Our community programme is celebrating 10 years of supporting local groups, charities, schools and good causes – and our Enniskillen store's community champion Simon Harron says he's so proud to have done his bit to help others.
Simon said: "I feel really privileged to be a part of the Community Champion programme. I am really outgoing and wanted to get to know my community better – this role has been perfect for that. I love meeting new people and making new friends."
He says it means so much to her to see the impact our support has in the local area.
"I feel like my personality has made the people I have helped grow even fonder of Asda as a business," said Simon. "The groups we support know they can get help in numerous ways through me, and more groups are starting to reach out as they hear and see what we have to offer the local community. Plus, they know I am just a call away if they ever need help, whether I’m in work or in my spare time."
Simon remains enthusiastic about his position and his work with various organisations throughout Enniskillen, providing help and opportunities for those who need it.
One area of focus over the years has seen him carry out consistent influential work with various mental health organisations.
He said: "I started out by helping NIAMH, Northern Ireland Action Mental Health, and I still do to this day. I have made great friends through this role, which has given me a better knowledge of the groups out there.”
“I used to help with an upcycling group and learned new skills in sanding and painting. I loved helping the members become accomplished in this area and watching them grow and find peace."
Simon has also developed strong relationships with a variety of people within the community.
He said: “Over the years I got to know a girl, Yvonne Fallis from Inspire Wellbeing (pictured at the top of the page), and we are great friends now – I call to see her for tea in my spare time!
"She even climbed a mountain with me for our Tickled Pink fundraiser and I am climbing with her again to raise money for the Motor Neurone Disease in memory of her sister in May.
"I'd like to thank the company for the role, and I am proud to be able to do my bit for the community. I would like to give a big shout out to Shelly Black, who encouraged me to go for the role many years ago – she knew I had the personality and drive for the role. I would have suffered from anxiety and a lack of confidence before but through her help and encouragement I have really grown and there is no stopping me now!"