Mark found the perfect volunteering role at GoVolHerts Volunteer Fair!

We are very fortunate to have some amazing volunteers who dedicate their time to support our mission. Alex has been volunteering as part of his Duke of Edinburgh Award… “I'm Alex, a 16-year-old who's passionate about lending a helping hand and connecting with people. My journey with volunteering began when I was just 14, participating in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award (DoE) at Willow’s Welwyn Garden shop. At first, stepping into the world of volunteering was a bit daunting for me, but I quickly embraced the challenge. Jumping right into meeting people and learning the ropes of customer service, I found myself thriving outside of my usual comfort zone. Now, at 16, I'm comfortable working the till and assisting customers with a smile. Volunteering here has been an incredible opportunity not just to give back, but to grow personally too. One of the highlights of my time here has been building a close working relationship with Jan, a fellow volunteer. Jan's guidance and support have been invaluable in my journey, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to learn from her experience. I particularly enjoy working alongside Jan, sorting through the books. There's something satisfying about organising and categorising them together. During my shifts, you'll often find me sorting books, DVDs, and hanging clothes. I dedicate two hours every Saturday to contribute to the shop's mission. Volunteering has really boosted my confidence and broadened my horizons. It's incredible how much I've grown in just a short time. From starting as a bronze-level participant to reaching gold status for my DoE Award, it's been an amazing journey of growth and learning. Outside of volunteering, I'm into music, especially playing the flute. But my real passion lies in making a difference and being friendly and helpful wherever I go. Volunteering here isn't just about the present; it's an investment in my future. Every day teaches me something new and adds value not just to the shop, but to my own personal and professional development. I'm excited to keep growing, making a difference, and spreading positivity wherever I can. If you're ever around Welwyn Garden City, come in and say hi!” We’re always looking for new volunteers, so please do take a look at our latest volunteering opportunities on www.willowfoundation.org.uk/volunteer #Volunteering #DukeOfEdinburgh #willowvolunteers

Ali Crook is a Volunteer Mentor for Caudwell Youth, and she took some time to answer some questions about what inspires her to support them. What prompted you to become a Volunteer Mentor? My plan, when I was able to reduce my regular workload, was to put something together to persuade large corporations to provide some sort guaranteed training apprentice for 3 years to care leavers and to contribute to purpose built care leaver flats in which to reside whilst they were under apprenticeship, with support , afterwards, to move forwards. This young person volunteering, I thought would give me better insights into the issues surrounding care leavers and the support that is necessary. It is doing just this. How often do you volunteer for Caudwell Youth? Every week I meet with my allocated mentee face to face, with additional contact via messaging in between. How has volunteering changed you? Volunteering has provided better insights into the challenges that young people face leaving the care system and has demonstrated the inadequacies of the state support that on the face of it, should work, but because of the way it is set up, and lack of funding, fails to deliver. Accepting that small wins are OK and a step in the right direction. What is the best thing about volunteering? It is a great way to “give something back” to society. Seeing small improvements and someone developing more independence. Meeting new people with different experiences. What would you say to someone considering volunteering? If you have an interest in supporting young people and can devote some time, just do it! Finally, would you recommend volunteering to others? Definitely – everyone should do something in life to “give something back” to society. You can find out more about volunteering for Caudwell Youth, but visiting their profile on GoVolHerts

Sara-Jane sent us her story about her experiences volunteering with Garden House Hospice: I knew about Garden House Hospice in Letchworth, which covers North Herts, but hadn't been any more involved other than donating clothes and household items since moving to Hitchin in 2019. Having had first hand experience of hospice care in my local area when I was in my 20's, it's very much a cause close to my heart and I know how hard hospices have to work to raise vital funds for people with life limiting illnesses. I was out of work last year and so got in touch with the hospice to see if I could lend a hand. I contacted them via GoVol Herts and applied for the role of volunteer for collections at the Farmers on Christmas Lights Tour. I also mentioned that I was currently unemployed and happy to help with any other initiatives local to me. The team got in touch to say that in the lead up to Christmas the shops were in need of some extra help and that there were two shops in Hitchin in the arcade at Churchgate - Threads (a preloved fashion boutique) and Vintage House (stocking antiques, vintage items and preowned bridal gowns under one roof). I went down for a show around at the end of November and immediately knew this would be a great opportunity for me. I volunteered throughout the month of December, mainly at Threads, and am still volunteering until I start a new full time job at the end of the month. I love working at Threads and meeting all the people who come in and also the gorgeous dogs (the shop is dog friendly!) The public donate directly to the shops and bring interesting books, vintage clothes, and gorgeous pieces like silverware or clocks and the stock in both shops is constantly changing. There are 'regulars' (some of whom I have started to get to know!) who come in to check out the latest offerings from time to time. If you haven't already been to take a look, I would certainly recommend a visit! I have thoroughly enjoyed my time volunteering and am glad that I decided to reach out. If you are thinking about volunteering, then give it a go, as you will find nothing but kindness, support and a good giggle here! Whether you want retail experience, you'd like a reason to get out of the house, or you need to build up some confidence, I have no doubt Nicola and Peter will make you feel welcome and part of the team right from the start. I am passionate about sustainability and I have loved being a small part of supporting local efforts to change the way we shop and reduce our impact on the planet.