When Janet Ross moved to Harrogate three years ago, she was looking for more than just a new home – she wanted connection, community and a way to stay active. What she found was Community Fit, organised by Harrogate and District Community Action (HADCA), and it’s been a life-changing experience ever since.

“I’m a retired single lady,” Janet explained. “I joined Community Fit as a member soon after moving here, and within my first year I accepted an offer to train as a run leader.”

Her introduction to the group was as unexpected as it was serendipitous. While enjoying an outdoor swim in the river at Knaresborough, Janet met Anna Glazier, Community Fit’s coordinator. “Anna mentioned an open evening and invited me along,” Janet recalls. “I wanted to meet people, be involved in the community and stay fit – so this was a perfect option. My age and fitness level were not a factor as all abilities are welcome.”

From the start, Janet loved the variety of tasks the group tackled. “We’d spend an hour a week doing something useful in the community, and because there was a group of us, we achieved a lot,” she says.

But volunteering with Community Fit turned out to be about so much more than weekly tasks. It opened doors Janet never imagined. “Other opportunities may present themselves,” she says with a smile. “In my case, a connection to another charity, a volunteer trip to Peru, and being able to become a run leader at 65.”

Her advice to anyone thinking about volunteering is simple: “Just walk through the door – you will be very welcome. You’ll meet new people and make great friendships, you’ll have fun and you’ll feel chuffed and satisfied when you go home. You’re giving back to the community, it’s a boost for your mental health, and you can give an amount of time that suits you.”

Janet sums up the best advice she’s ever received in one powerful sentence: “You can make a difference…”

And if you think you know everything about Janet, think again. “I’m an advanced driver and once won a driving competition for female drivers,” she reveals with a grin.

Janet’s story is proof that volunteering isn’t just about helping others, it’s about enriching your own life in ways you never expected. So, if you’ve ever thought about getting involved, take Janet’s advice: just walk through the door.