Championing Families, Strengthening Communities, and Welcoming New Trustees
As part of our celebrations for Trustee Week, we’re continuing to shine a light on the dedicated volunteers who guide and support Home-Start Richmondshire (HSR).
Our Trustees bring invaluable expertise, compassion, and commitment, helping us provide vital support to families across the community. Following our conversation with fellow Trustee Anita Jay, we’re delighted to introduce Tad Zaranko, who shares his journey, insights, and encouragement for anyone thinking about joining our board.
Meet Tad Zaranko
What first inspired you to get involved with Home-Start Richmondshire as a Trustee?
I was recruited by a fellow Trustee who outlined the important work HSR does and explained what would be expected of me as a board member. They also helped me see how my own skills and experience could be of real value to the organisation.
What did you know about Home-Start before joining the board?
Very little, if I’m honest! It wasn’t until I had conversations with the person who recruited me and later with the Chair and Vice-Chair, that I truly understood the impact of HSR’s work. That really sealed my interest in joining.
What does being a Trustee involve?
My role is to provide a strategic overview of the organisation, ensuring that policies and procedures are properly followed. Trustees also use their networks and connections to help promote HSR’s work and raise awareness within the community.
What has been the most rewarding part so far?
Seeing the organisation grow and become more financially secure has been incredibly rewarding. It’s wonderful to know that this stability directly enhances the support we can offer to local families.
Have there been any surprises along the way?
No major surprises, but I’ve learned that securing funding through grants is a constant challenge. It’s an area that requires creativity, persistence, and teamwork.
How does Home-Start Richmondshire make a difference locally?
HSR provides essential support to young families facing difficult or uncertain circumstances. We operate in a world that can often feel volatile and unpredictable, so ensuring that families have access to the right care and encouragement is vital. Trustees help make sure that our strategic goals continue to meet these challenges.
How do your professional experiences support your work as a Trustee?
I’ve spent many years working in education across a range of settings, including time as a senior leader. I hope that experience has been useful to HSR, particularly in understanding the pressures that families and young children face.
What kind of people make good Trustees?
There’s no single “right” background. Whatever your experiences or skills, they’ll be of value to HSR. What matters most is a genuine interest in helping families thrive.
How much time does the role take?
On average, around four hours per month across meetings, preparation, and occasional events. It’s very manageable and extremely rewarding.
What do you see for the future of HSR?
The future looks much more secure, with long-term funding in place. We’re also seeing the positive impact of partnership working; this collaboration is expanding the reach and depth of support we can provide to families.
What would you say to someone considering becoming a Trustee?
We’re at a really exciting stage of growth, and people with a range of skills and experiences would add huge strength to our board. If you’re curious, just reach out; speak to one of our Trustees or our Manager to learn more about what’s involved.
____________________________
Could You Be Our Next Trustee?
We are looking for new Trustees to join our friendly and committed board. Whether your background is in education, business, health, community work, or something entirely different, your insight could help shape the future of family support in Richmondshire.
📧 Get in touch: info@homestartrichmondshire.org.uk