As part of Volunteers’ Week 2023, we’ve chosen to shout out about particular volunteers and organisations’ stories. The Kings Arms (KA), an East Hampshire charity that wants young people to fulfill their potential and feel their worth, let Community First interview one of their volunteers and focus on the charity’s impactful work.
The Kings Arms, set up to meet the needs of young people in Alton, Petersfield, and its surrounding areas, has been doing great work for youths for over 20 years. What’s fantastic about the KA is the breadth of services and activities it offers to young people. The KA centres provide a warm and friendly space for young people to engage in its facilities and activities. On offer are kitchen spaces, a pool table, table tennis, arts and crafts plus relaxing sofas with TVs. Programmes at the KA really do cater to all. There is a relaxed after-school club, sessions for individuals with learning disabilities, faith exploring groups, young carer sessions, and more. The KA encourages young people to feedback to the organisation, whether that be becoming a volunteer, shaping activities, or just having a say.
Carole’s Experience
For all this amazing work that happens, volunteers are a great asset to help the KA run programs and activities. Here’s what Carole had to say:
“I am really enjoying my time at the King’s Arms Young Carers group. It is incredibly rewarding and interesting. The staff and other volunteers could not have been more welcoming and helpful, always making me feel included and valued. This role has given me the opportunity to spend time with the most amazing group of young people and understands a little about the life of a young carer. They are truly inspirational and it is a privilege to be a part of what the King’s Arms organisation provides for them.”
“Volunteering is enriching and fun. It is a great way to meet people and learn about yourself and others who might walk a different path from you. I would definitely recommend it!”
“I decided to volunteer, together with my teenage daughter, as we found ourselves with a little free time and wanted to do something meaningful with it. I didn’t have a particular role in mind and found the Volunteer Service/Volunteer FIrst website was full of opportunities and information. I would definitely recommend the Volunteer Service to get some ideas of what is needed in the local area and to help you to find a role that suits you and the time you have available.”
Has Carole’s experience inspired you? Here is a link to opportunities at the KA: https://volunteerfirst.co.uk/organisation/101130/