Anyone here volunteer?

Sawell · 8 Dec 2009 at 15:51

I'm currently about half a year into the process of befriending, which is basically being a 'bigger brother' to 6-17 year olds in foster care, being there for them for advice or as a shoulder to lean on. Doing what social workers and foster parents can't. I chose to do it mainly because I was in the same position as them, and have been through the same kind of experiences they will be facing. If I can give something back to the care system then I think it will give me a sense of fulfilment and hopefully I can really help a child along the way.

I'm excited at the prospect, I'm a lot younger than most befrienders, which doesn't really count against me as it's the kids themselves that pick you. It's just a very long process. I've been through a lot of vetting and interviewing, but it all needs to be done I guess.

Do any of you volunteer? I know we have a few specials on here?

I'm also looking to do something a bit more active. I did consider joining the specials, but I don't think I'd be suitable as my brother has been in a lot of trouble. Does anyone know any good resources for finding local volunteer work that isn't government funded? I know the government sites, nothing really appeals there.

floatindolphin · 8 Dec 2009 at 15:57

Good effort! sounds like good stuff! Have you seen Rolemodels?

Not quite the same, but I'm a volunteer in Derby Mountain Rescue.

Mountains in Derby = Peak District

Dinomania · 8 Dec 2009 at 16:11

Well, I "volunteer" for the Tall Ships Youth Trust (formerly the Sail Training Association, STA), which means I go back on board as one of the working crew - I still pay my way but it's cheaper than going back as a trainee (and TBH I don't need to any more). I've been a deckhand the last few times and will go as an assistant engineer next time I think (the engine room's pretty amazing despite it being a ship with sails).

It's hardly doing it out of the kindness of my heart. I would like to go as a Youth Mentor though once I have some experience with young people behind me.

tres · 8 Dec 2009 at 16:17

I volunteer as a HM Coastguard & training to be a co-responder (although more geared up towards the paramedic level here)

Sukh · 8 Dec 2009 at 16:27

I volunteer on the weekend to help autistic/physically disabled kids play sports and do puzzles etc.

Bennie-Mac · 8 Dec 2009 at 16:31

Climbing instructor/general activites organiser at the local forest park/scout centre

Shotgun_ned · 8 Dec 2009 at 16:32

I'm one of those Specials

.

Burnsy2023 · 8 Dec 2009 at 16:34

sara said:
Well, I "volunteer" for the Tall Ships Youth Trust (formerly the Sail Training Association, STA), which means I go back on board as one of the working crew - I still pay my way but it's cheaper than going back as a trainee (and TBH I don't need to any more). I've been a deckhand the last few times and will go as an assistant engineer next time I think (the engine room's pretty amazing despite it being a ship with sails).

It's hardly doing it out of the kindness of my heart. I would like to go as a Youth Mentor though once I have some experience with young people behind me.

A worthy cause. I must look at photos of my time on the Stavros again