So yeah – volunteering. Why do I do it? Honestly, I started out with little things, like Silver Sundays. I’d help out serving tea and coffee to older people, or do some planting in the community. I didn’t really think of it as “volunteering” at the time – just helping out where I could.
I reckon it was about two years ago when I started properly. Can’t remember exactly where, but it was definitely something to do with helping the local community. Then I started coming to Restore Hope – although I’ve been around here pretty much since I was about two or three years old. My family’s been involved for ages, so I already knew loads of people. That helped. It felt natural.
When I’m here, I do all sorts. Events are a big one – welcoming people, helping them find where they need to go, that kind of thing. I also help pack vegetable boxes that go out to the local community. It’s mad how quickly they all get done. A whole team shows up, we get through loads of boxes, and then – gone. Just like that.
My parents were the ones who encouraged me to get involved. Mum used to volunteer, though I can’t remember exactly what she did. But yeah – they’ve been a big part of why I started. And why I’ve stuck with it.
A typical volunteering day for me? It usually starts with a team meeting, then we get given our roles and go off to do our bit. I like helping people. It feels good. Even just showing someone where to go or chatting with them – it makes a difference.
What have I learned? Patience, for one. And how to find ways around things when they get tricky. Not everything goes smoothly, but you figure it out. Volunteering can be a laugh too – especially when you’ve got a good group around you. I try to bring a bit of humour into it. I think that helps.
People ask what qualities you need for volunteering. I’d say kindness, being able to make people feel welcome, and just wanting to help. I used to volunteer every Tuesday after school, but now it’s more just when events are on. You’ve got to have a bit of passion for it, otherwise you wouldn’t keep going back.
Why Restore Hope? Like I said – I already knew everyone. It’s like a second home in a way. I grew up around here, so volunteering here made sense.
Why does it matter to me? Because I get to help people. Simple as that. And yeah, it makes me feel proud. Not because of any awards or anything – although I’ve had a few of those too – but because I know I’ve made a difference. That’s what really matters to me.
If I had to pick one moment that stands out, I’d say it’s seeing people happy at events. Like, playing games in the field, laughing, enjoying themselves. Just seeing that makes it all worth it.
Has volunteering changed me? Yeah, it has. It’s made me more confident – in myself and in how I deal with people. It’s helped me grow.
And if someone asked me whether they should try volunteering, I’d say 100% yes. It’s a good thing to do. You help people, you learn stuff, and you get something back too. Even if you don’t expect to.
It’s not just about giving. Sometimes, you realise you’re getting just as much in return.
