We’ve been sharing the experiences of some of the people who volunteer with Move On to celebrate Volunteers’ Week. Yesterday we caught up with Edmund, who meets up with his mentee every week to take part in archery lessons together. Edmund says he has seen his young person transform from being “so shy they wouldn’t make eye contact to… almost having to be dragged away from the class when it finishes because they’re enjoying themselves so much!”
Today we’re chatting to Jessica, one of our newest volunteer mentors, who was matched with her young person earlier this year. Jessica says she was motivated to start volunteering because she was keen to “give back to individuals and communities, so they can also feel more confident, in turn, to give back.”
Jessica particularly enjoyed the mentor training and support she’s received as a volunteer: “Working with Move On is like being part of a family, of being part of something important. The staff take such care and interest in me as a volunteer. I know I am valued by them and by everything I contribute to as part of the training, matching and mentoring process.”
As a new mentor, Jessica has already felt the benefits of volunteering, particularly in helping her “learn more about myself and find strength in my own abilities, confidence and resilience.” She says “It gives me even more strength and self-worth to know that I can share this and it is having an impact!”
Jessica would recommend volunteering with Move On “to anyone that has an ounce of giving.” She adds “The experience will fill you right up with positivity and hope!”
If you’re interested in volunteering with Move On, we have a variety of opportunities to choose from:
Edinburgh
Glasgow
