Kevin Morland, 
Founder of An Hour For Others.

Hi my name is Kevin Morland, I am founder of An Hour For Others.

I'm 47 and was born and raised in Liverpool, I actually went to the same 2 schools as John Lennon, Dovedale and Quarry Bank which I love boring people with. I have 2 sons, Scott and Liam and am a grandad of 2 beautiful little angels Freya and Nulah, I couldn't wish for a better squadron of souls around me including my partner Gill who without AHFO would still have been an idea floating around my head.  Gill has sacrificed so much to help me over the years and even gave up an amazing career in finance to build AHFO, I couldn’t have wished for anyone better to be at my side through the last 8 years, she is an absolute warrior with a heart of gold.
 
Some of the worst moments of my life became my biggest lessons, Hillsborough had a real impact on me as a 14yr old kid.  We had the luckiest escape that day when my dad moved us away from a crash barrier only 40 minutes before it gave way and resulted in the deaths of 97 men, women and children. From that day I knew life had a bigger meaning and there was a purpose and reason I didn’t die. It was something that stayed with me through life and the moment I had the idea which resulted in AHFO I knew that was it! 
 
Losing my Mum in 2007 was another huge moment for me, she was my best mate and even the thought of losing her would send me into deep worry and anxiety. To hear the words I‘ve got cancer and there’s nothing they can do for me’ hit me hard and my Mum knew it. It hurt her so much having to say them words and it stood out to me that our loved ones in that situation are more concerned for those they leave behind than of death itself. My Mum fought the cancer for 3 months until she died in June 2007.  A moment that had stuck out for me was one day when my Mum looked really worried, she had always put a brave face on in front of us but this day she just couldn’t.  I asked why she was worried and she said she was really scared at how I would be when she died, she thought I would go off the rails and take a downward spiral. I looked her in the eyes and promised I would make her proud every single day and be the best I could be in life. I knew the minute I said it I was going really give life everything I could and make it better for other people too. 

Here I am in 2022 and looking back over the years I know I have had a positive impact in this world and on many, many lives. I am determined and passionate to keep on helping and inspiring people. I know that all people are special and have so much potential no matter what their circumstances. I have recently qualified as a life/performance coach and also love mentoring, this is something I have integrated into AHFO so we don’t only provide support for families but we work with them to empower a belief and vision in helping them reach their full potential and themselves create a better community. 

Together we are strong and together we can change our world to create futures where our children will thrive. Believe. 

Gillian Watkins, Founder, 
Finance Manager & Charity Secretary.

My name is Gill and I am the partner of Kevin, the founder of AHFO. I met Kevin in 2014 and was blown away by how passionately he spoke about his vision for An Hour for Others and improving our communities. It was from that moment that Kev and I gave our lives to making the charity what it is today, along with the fantastic team we have behind us. It has been so heart warming to see how many people support our mission which is to "build better communities and inspire positive change'. An Hour for Others is the platform that people needed to be able to make a difference and to help others and to see this happening every day is the best feeling in the world and something that money cannot buy. 

A little bit about me...going through really hard times when leaving school and then becoming pregnant at 18 years old, my young adult life never started easy. I was a victim of domestic violence and I was also in a serious car accident which nearly cost me my life. But, thanks to the love I had for my little girl and the support I had from my family, I went back to college at 21. I was determined to be the best role model to my daughter, and I'm proud to say she is now 24 and thriving in every walk of her life. 

I studied for years, working full time as I did, and eventually I qualified as an accountant, landing a job as a management accountant for an American-based company shortly after. It wasn’t easy, but with hard work and determination I did it and I realised if I could do it, anyone could do it!  This is when I met Kevin and heard his vision. I got it straight away and I couldn't wait to share my experience with young mums, encouraging them to never to give up and to always reach their full potential. 

In August 2014, eight months after meeting Kevin, I took voluntary redundancy from the job I loved. I also told Kevin to leave his job and that I would finance him so that we could get his idea off the ground. I'm not going to lie, piecing Kevin's jigsaw together over the last few years, has been the most challenging in my life but it's also been the most rewarding too. When people say they could write a book, we really could. That book is only just beginning and I'm looking forward to seeing how far we can go on our journey towards making our little world a happier one.

As our moto says "Together we are strong". 

Andrea - Our Business Partnership and Operations Manager

With over 30 years of experience in the retail industry, Andrea has cultivated a rich background in managing large teams and overseeing significant operations. Prior to joining An Hour for Others, she dedicated 12 years as a volunteer trustee for the charity, deepening her commitment to community service.

Andrea shares that An Hour for Others transforms lives by uniting diverse individuals to create positive experiences within our communities. Andrea lives this mission by fostering collaboration and harnessing the strengths of numerous partners to make essential opportunities available to those who need them most.

A pivotal moment in her experience with the charity was the bedroom refurbishment project for a family with three young children. Witnessing the profound impact of providing a safe, warm, and comfortable space reinforced her belief in the charity's mission and the role that compassionate action plays in transforming lives.

Balancing a demanding career with family life has been a challenge for Andrea.  While long hours and weekends were once the norm in retail, working at An Hour for Others has brought a gratifying shift. The challenging yet rewarding work allows her to contribute positively every day, making the sacrifice worth it. The flexibility in the role also provides precious time to spend with family, fulfilling both professional and personal aspirations.

Andrea continues to inspire and lead, making a tangible difference in the lives of countless individuals and families within the community.

 

Spotlight on Suzie Cain,
Beneficiaries Co-ordinator

With an impressive tenure of over 35 years in social welfare and community support, Suzie serves as a key figure at AHFO. Her diverse background includes substantial roles in Hospitality/Welfare Rights Advisor at Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) and as a Housing Officer, where she gained a deep understanding of the challenges faced by individuals and families in need.

Suzie's passion for community cohesion is evident in her belief that the charity serves as a lifeline for many. She emphasises that unity can create an "invisible force," bringing strength and comfort to those navigating life's most difficult moments. This belief is woven into every aspect of her role, and she actively reinforces this message to both existing and new members, reminding them of the support system available through AHFO.

One of Suzie's most impactful experiences involved assisting a single parent and their child during the difficult holiday season. When referred by a department head, she focused on the action required to fulfil the child’s Christmas wish list and ensure the family received a festive hamper. As the months progressed, Susie provided continued support to the parent, who had been struggling with mental health. By encouraging them to participate in community events, Susie witnessed the child’s transformation from socially isolated with low self-esteem to a confident teen who actively engages with AHFO’s activities. This journey culminated in the parent seeking help and becoming a vital part of the community, volunteering and contributing to children’s programs.

In addition to this Suzie has spent years leading bereavement support groups, witnessing firsthand the varying impacts of grief on individuals. Trusted with their stories during their darkest times, she considers it a privilege to guide them toward healing and coping strategies. Each interaction leaves a profound mark on her, continually reminding her of the importance of life’s essential values.

Suzie's dedication and compassion resonate throughout the community. She often reflects on the meaningful relationships fostered through AHFO, and her commitment to helping others is unwavering. With each story she encounters, she is inspired to ensure that no one feels alone on their journey.


Kelsea Conway,
Food Club Co-ordinator


Hi, my name is Kelsea. When I was asked to join the team it was an easy YES because for me AHFO is everything that's good in our city. People coming together to support and empower each other!

I also work full time in a local primary school and I see day to day the impact our charity is having. Seeing the kids getting involved and wanting to help others is the best feeling. 

I love organising the fundraising events and seeing them grow each year. I love getting people involved and pushing them to try new things and seeing that sense of pride and achievement in themselves makes it even better. 

AHFO is a family; a community. 

Meet John Paul Ainscough (Toddy) our

Youth Worker

With over 4 years and 2 months of experience as a self-employed business owner since 2013, Toddy has dedicated his life to empowering the community. He believes in the transformative power of teamwork to help individuals reclaim their potential for a better future for themselves and their families.

A pivotal moment in his experience was witnessing a young girl take on a major role in a theatre production with less than 24 hours' notice, showcasing the impact of mentorship and support they had received within the Charity.

Through engaging with children's groups, Toddy has found restoration by connecting with those who share similar experiences, which has provided him with a renewed sense of purpose.

Toddy is deeply committed to AHFO and its mission of self-improvement and community well-being, believing that happier, healthier individuals will ultimately benefit the city as a whole. 


Introducing Lyndsay Watkins Volunteer Co-ordinator 

Linzi's journey as a volunteer coordinator has been incredible.  She witnesses the power of community and the profound impact that volunteers can have. Witnessing the change in our volunteers as they dedicate their free time to helping others is truly heartwarming.

Through their involvement, volunteers have not only given back to the community but have also experienced significant personal growth. From the first day to now, it's incredible to see their confidence growing. Many volunteers enter with a bit of uncertainty, but as time progresses, they blossom into more assured individuals, forming friendships that enrich their lives.

The positive effects on mental health are also noteworthy. Volunteers often express their satisfaction and happiness, which, in turn, creates a supportive network. These interactions foster a sense of belonging and community, vital for everyone's wellbeing.

Linzi thoroughly enjoys the lively energy of her coffee mornings with the public, the vibrant children’s half-term groups, residential activities, and the Christmas mission.




This is Alice our Fundraising Assistant - An Essential Role

Alice joined An Hour for Others just two months ago, bringing a refreshing enthusiasm and dedication to uplifting our community. With a deep-rooted belief in the power of solidarity, Alice emphasises, "It's important because we need each other to make our community better."

In her role, Alice plays a pivotal part in our fundraising initiatives, helping to ensure that we can support families in need, particularly during the holiday season. The happiness on the faces of those we assist at Christmas serves as a constant reminder of why her work is so vital.
Alice is inspired by the profound gratitude expressed by the families we serve. She believes that every effort counts and that together, we can create lasting change. As she continues her journey with us, Alice is committed to fostering a more supportive and compassionate community.


Our Expansion into Huyton! - Meet Jo our Shop Deputy Manager

Jo has over 15 years of experience as a care worker and has spent an impressive 20 years in retail roles.   In her current role at AHFO, Jo works hard to empower individuals to enhance their quality of life.  She is deeply committed to serving the community and supporting families.

One of her favourite aspects of work is the powerful sense of community visible at the food club, where the community unites to support one another. This support improves lives and friendship through shared experience.
Expressing pride in their role at AHFO, Jo finds fulfilment in collaborating with community members and spreading kindness. Jo believes that every act of compassion contributes to a warmer, more connected Liverpool which ultimately benefits us all.