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Volunteens

What is Volunteens?

Volunteens is a pioneering project initiated in October 2022 as part of the Strategic Volunteering Grant Round 2. Funded by the Welsh Government and administered by WCVA and Volunteering in Wales, the project was created to engage young people in meaningful volunteer work. Initially planned for a year, its success has led to continued funding. The name "Volunteens" was chosen by the young participants themselves, reflecting the project's youth-led ethos.

Benefits of Volunteering

Volunteering provides significant advantages not only to the community but also to the volunteers themselves. Our Volunteens have reported numerous personal gains, which include:

  • New Skills and Valuable Work Experience

    Volunteering offers practical experience and the opportunity to develop new skills that are applicable in various fields. This hands-on experience can enhance a volunteer's resume, making them more attractive to potential employers. Skills such as project management, teamwork, leadership, and effective communication are often cultivated through volunteer work.

  • Making New Friends

    Volunteering creates opportunities to meet and connect with peers who share similar interests. These interactions can lead to lasting friendships and a strong support network. Working towards common goals helps build camaraderie and trust among volunteers, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

  • Better Physical and Mental Health and Wellbeing

    Engaging in volunteer activities promotes overall health and wellness. Physical tasks can improve fitness, while the social and psychological aspects of volunteering contribute to mental well-being. Volunteers often report feeling less stressed and more satisfied with their lives. The act of helping others can also boost mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

  • Giving Back to the Community

    Volunteers find satisfaction and purpose in contributing to their community. This sense of giving back can instil a greater sense of civic responsibility and pride. Volunteers play a crucial role in supporting local services, improving the quality of life for community members, and addressing social issues.

  • Improved Confidence

    Volunteering helps build self-esteem and confidence through new experiences. Successfully completing tasks and overcoming challenges can reinforce a volunteer's belief in their abilities. The recognition and appreciation received from the community can further enhance self-worth and confidence.

  • A Sense of Connection

    Volunteering fosters a sense of belonging and connection to the community. It allows individuals to become more integrated into their local area, understanding its needs and challenges. This sense of connection can lead to a more engaged and active citizenry.

  • Demonstrating Commitment

    Volunteering shows a dedication to personal growth and community service. This commitment is often recognised and valued by educational institutions and employers. It demonstrates that a volunteer is willing to invest time and effort in causes greater than themselves, highlighting qualities such as empathy, resilience, and social responsibility.

    Volunteering is a mutually beneficial activity that enriches both the community and the volunteers. It offers practical experience, fosters personal growth, and strengthens social bonds, making it an invaluable component of a thriving society. 

What our volunteers say

"I loved getting involved! I would love to do this or something similar again. Maybe we could get more people involved because it’s a great opportunity."

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What People Say

It’s been a real privilege to work alongside such a welcoming and inspiring community. The pupils have shown real creativity and commitment in producing a newsletter that celebrates the diversity of the Llanelli Multicultural Network and helps raise awareness of its important work. They’ve created something truly special.

Hannah Forey, Ysgol Y Stradey

The  Foothold Cymru "Volunteens" initiative offers amazing opportunities for young people, and as a Foothold Cymru Trustee I have been delighted to see the positive impact the initiative has had. With my role at Llanelli Multicultural Network-LMCN I was so pleased that I could help facilitate a joint project for the young people at Ysgol Strade School to create a newsletter for LMCN. The finished item shows that a great deal of hard work has gone into its creation, and it will now be distributed to a huge audience of several thousands.

Paolo Piana

A friendly welcome and a heart warming experience learning more about cultures across the world who have all come together as one, as one community.

Manon Jenkins

Not only does volunteering open up a wealth of experiences, but it also allows young people to gain a variety of skills, such as team-work, that are beneficial in day-to-day life. I can’t express how much their volunteering is appreciated and valued by the service

Sarah Jones, Senior Participation and Children’s Rights Officer (CCC)