IT is always nice to feature someone in Meet the Boss who loves what they do.

From the moment Katie Blundell starts talking it becomes clear that she is one of those lucky souls who gets a real buzz from work.

Before you are overcome with envy it is worth noting that, like most of us, Katie has had her fair share of dead end jobs too. Working in the pie kiosk for Darlington Football Club at the away end of their much-missed Feethams ground was a low point, she admits.

But the Teesside University history graduate, who reveals she has a fascination for Henry VIII's second wife Anne Boleyn, now leads a project that is making a big difference to the lives of people in her home town.

Katie heads up Darlington Cares, a project that matches the skills of people working in local firms to opportunities where they can have a positive impact on the community. Some of the town's biggest employers, including Cummins, DeepOcean, Sherwoods and Darlington Borough Council, have encouraged their employees to work on a range of projects including litter picks, community centre decorating and working with schoolchildren. An example of the latter is the Busy Readers programme, which operates in four Darlington Primary schools. As part of the scheme, volunteers were trained by Darlington Cares and placed in schools to listen to children read for one hour a week.

Katie says: "Some people might be put off from becoming involved with us because they think it's going to be a big drain on their week. But a small amount of time and effort can have a huge impact on a person's life."

Katie's own education took her from Middleton St George Primary to Hurworth School and on to Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College (QE) where she sat her A'levels.

After university her career has been in marketing and events, first with Stockton-based family firm Pickerings Lifts and then to Raby Estates. "That was the first time I had worked on my own and it proved to be a formative experience that has stood me in good stead for what I do now," recalls Katie, who has fond memories of managing events based around Raby Castle and the stunning countryside that surrounds one of County Durham's historic treasures.

After a less happy spell with the Newcastle-based Credit Services Association, the trade organisation for the debt collection agency, "it just wasn't right for me" says Katie, she jumped at the chance to help launch Teesside University-based Darlington Cares in autumn 2012.

Since then the project's employability mentoring has helped about 300 pupils.

"Often it is the small things that I remember and draw the greatest amount of pride from," says Katie, 33, based at the university's Darlington campus.

"We track the progress of young people we work with. A couple of weeks ago a girl whom we had helped with mentoring at QE had gone on to secure her dream job in travel. That will have a big impact on her future. Stories like that make this all worth while.

"The job keeps challenging me and I'm happy where I am. I've no plans to move on.

"More and more people are wanting to get involved in their local community, so I can only see this getting bigger and touching more lives."

Next on the agenda is a collaboration with the Foundation for Jobs youth employment initiative, led by former Northern Echo business editor Owen McAteer. The Ready for Work pilot scheme with Whessoe Engineering has already helped young people at Hummersknott Academy with practical advice such as writing a CV and interview techniques. The plan is to roll it out in the next academic year to more companies and schools.

Katie concludes: "I really enjoy what I do. I think I would be passionate about this no matter where it was based but the fact that I am doing it in my home town makes it extra special."

To find out more about how your business or school can get involved with Darlington Cares call Katie on 01642 738970 or email k.blundell@tees.ac.uk

FIVE minutes with Katie Blundell, programme manager of Darlington Cares.

Favourite North-East building and why?

It has to be Raby Castle. I used to work there so I am biased, but it is magnificent.

What was your first job and how much did you get paid?

I was a waitress, and a pretty good one, at the Devonport hotel in Middleton-one-Row (Darlington). I was paid £2.65 an hour and was so excited when I got my first pay packet of £18.

What is the worst job you've had?

Probably working in the away supporter’s pie kiosk for Darlo FC at Feethams. The supporters were always good natured but the smell wasn’t the best.

What would you cook for me if I came around for dinner?

I really enjoy cooking. Dessert would definitely be my signature pavlova, it is delicious. I don’t eat meat myself but I cook it and would probably go with a nice steak, homemade chunky chips and my garlic spinach. All washed down with a nice bottle of Chianti or Rioja.

What would your superpower be?

Invisibility – so I could spy on people.

Name four people, dead or alive, who would be at your perfect dinner party.

Anne Boleyn – I think she must have been a fascinating person. My favourite actors, Rose Byrne and Jason Segal as I imagine they would be good fun, and Delia Smith, my favourite chef.

Most expensive thing you've bought - other than car or house - and how much?

I am not really an extravagant spender so it was probably £200 on a dress.

Who is the best person to follow on Twitter and why?

His music is not my cup of tea, but James Blunt is pretty funny in his put downs.

Favourite book?

The Great Gatsby.

When did you last cry?

When I got engaged recently.

What is your greatest achievement?

Professionally, I am really proud of getting Darlington Cares to the position it is today. Personally it was doing the Great North Run although it was 10 years ago.

What's the best piece of advice in business you've ever been given?

To understand that there will be bumps in the road at times but you will overcome them.

Favourite animal and why.

Cats, I have grown up with them all my life and have a lovely one called, Tux.

Most famous person on your mobile phone.

It would have to be local business legend, Alasdair MacConachie, who has been a big supporter of Darlington Cares.

What was the last band you saw live?

Girls Aloud

Describe your perfect night in.

A pizza, nice bottle of red wine and a good film

In another life I would be...

I always think I would have made a good doctor, as I consider myself a caring person. However I have no aptitude for science and a dislike of blood.

Who would play you in a film of your life?

Although I don’t look like her, I would say Rose Byrne – she is my favourite actress.

What irritates you?

Bad manners.

What's your secret talent?

Rolling my tongue.