For many years, Viv has been part of the Community First volunteering family. Since retiring, she has continued to give her time and skills in a role that has evolved alongside her changing needs and abilities.
“As I have got older, the role has changed to accommodate me,” Viv explains.
Living with mobility challenges means Viv no longer visits organisations in person. Instead, she now supports Volunteer First by contacting charities and community groups by phone and email. Her role includes reminding organisations to renew their volunteering opportunities and checking whether they have been able to support prospective volunteers.
Over time, Viv has built strong relationships with many local charities.
“Many of the charities know my name and immediately guess why I am calling,” she says. “It’s so friendly!”
For Viv, volunteering continues to provide a real sense of purpose, connection and confidence.
“The great thing is that I feel as if I am still young enough to work despite, clearly, ageing quickly!” she says with humour.
She also values being part of a supportive team.
“Luckily, I have some great colleagues who kindly regard me as one of the team — and that’s a good feeling.”
Viv’s experience highlights an important message during Volunteers’ Week: volunteering can be flexible. Roles can adapt as circumstances change, and volunteers often discover new ways to contribute their skills and experience.
“You might apply for one role, only to discover that your other skills can fit in another,” Viv says. “That gives you a feeling of confidence and of being valued.”
Her message to others considering volunteering is simple:
“I wholeheartedly recommend it.”