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What’s going on in your local community? |
A couple of years ago, on a visit to the library I found myself browsing through a folder entitled ‘What’s going on in the local community’. I was particularly interested in a small, local organisation of charitable status that needed some volunteer help.
United Voices provides advocacy services for people with learning disabilities within the areas of Maidenhead, Windsor and Slough. Although there are a few people employed by the organisation, United Voices is dependent on it’s volunteer workforce. There is much to do in a small and developing organisation. Due to limited funds and regular fundraising, organisations like United Voices cannot afford to employ many employees. All volunteer help is greatly appreciated and often provides additional opportunities and projects for the members of United Voices. Volunteer projects include – helping to build and maintain a website, transporting members to meetings, working with members on advocacy workshops, fundraising, to name a few. Both parties can gain huge benefits by working together as members and volunteers - friendship, new skills, having fun, the chance to give back to the community and being able to make a difference by working together. I’ve learned a lot as a volunteer and really appreciate how much hard work goes on behind the scenes. Before ‘The Year of the Volunteer’ comes to an end, I invite you to think about how you could give a few hours a month and see what a difference you can make! You may be pleasantly surprised at the difference your volunteer time makes to an organisation like United Voices. I was surprised to meet our newest volunteer at last week’s Christmas party, dressed in a dazzling red outfit …and that long grey beard …now where do I recognise him from? Mary Fraser United Voices website www.united-voices.co.uk |
