VASL would be nothing without our brilliant volunteers, Trustees, Befrienders, Drivers, Admin Support, Digital volunteers, we want to thank you all.
These are the things our volunteers told us about the impact that their volunteering has on them as well as the clients.
Lauren – Trustee and Young Carers driver
I’ve become a volunteer driver and a board member, both of which are roles that I find incredibly rewarding, and I am able to commit to around my regular working hours. Taking just a short time out of your week to help VASL is immensely rewarding and makes a significant difference in the community.
Volunteering gives me a purpose and a sense of accomplishment. Listening to people that feel alone and helpless, giving them the support and friendship that will help them, makes me feel like in a small way I am making a difference.
Sam Telephone Befriender with Support for Carers and Community Wellbeing,
David Volunteer Driver
“Since retiring a few years ago, volunteering has become an important part of who I am.
It’s a great way to give a bit back to the local community plus I get to meet lots of interesting people. I drive for VASL each week, help out with Community Composting, and support Waste Reduction events. I’ve helped run community owned Solar Energy projects and planted trees in the local area.
They all add some structure and purpose to my time and are a good way of staying fit and active. Learning to do new things properly can be physically and mentally demanding, even a bit stressful but it’s all very rewarding. I’ve also enjoyed sharing my new skills and experience with others.
Will is a Community Champions Befriender
“I thoroughly enjoy my weekly visits to see D. after work and they give me something to look forward to during the working day and week. I have been pleasantly surprised about how much I get out of them and also for the time I am with him we can both chat about a wide variety of topics without any judgment, the conversation just flows. I can’t recommend volunteering as a community champion enough.”
Volunteering can suit people of all ages and circumstances. Even if you only have an hour or two to spare – you’ll be surprised how much difference you can make for others and yourself.
