Following a successful funding bid to the National Lottery’s Reaching Communities Fund a few months ago we’ve been extremely busy recruiting just the right staff members for the job. And in August, Community First were delighted to welcome Joy and Ellie to the project.
Both staff members have now taken up their new roles and are ready and raring to go, developing and delivering the Young Volunteering Project for 13 to 17 years olds.
They will be spending the next few weeks meeting some of the many lovely people and organsiations in Hampshire whom they are hoping to work with and help over the next 2 years. If you would like to speak with them about:
- A young person you know who would like to volunteer
- Developing or providing a volunteer role for a young person
- Anything related to Young Volunteers
Please do get in touch, you can reach the team at: youngvolunteers@cfirst.org.uk
Here’s what our new recruits had to say.
Joy (full time)
My name is Joy and I am one of the new team focussing on introducing young people into volunteering opportunities.
I moved to Eastleigh from Lincolnshire two months ago.
My background is in Social Care, mainly Intensive Needs support for 16-21 year olds. My career in Social Work began when I was a volunteer for a supported housing project, while studying with the Open University. I have championed volunteering ever since as I am aware of the opportunities and experience it has provided for me. I have encouraged many young people to volunteer during my career as I know from personal experience the life skills and experience you are able to gain. My new role will be an exciting opportunity to introduce a younger age group into volunteering and I look forward to the challenge of encouraging organisations to accept having younger volunteers and the benefits they can provide. I am particularly looking forward to engaging with young people who may not have had the support or encouragement into volunteering roles before.
I look forward to working with you all in the future and watching this exciting new project grow.
Ellie (part time, Tues to Thurs)
Hello, my name is Ellie. I have three cats and a little girl at home. I am very passionate about volunteering, I have volunteered myself for over two years so I understand how valuable it is and also rewarding. I have worked in the prison service and with special needs children before landing this new role. I am looking forward to meeting you all and working together.
