Anne-Claire - One of our Volunteers

I volunteered for Winchester YMCA after graduating and whilst looking for work. I was keen to get involved in something that I had never done before and make the most of my free time.

Volunteering at the YMCA gave me the opportunity to be part of a friendly, hard-working team and work towards projects that really make a difference to young people in my community.

I had never done youth work before and so helped out mostly in the office with administrative tasks, but the team asked for my advice, involved me in decisions, and helped me see how the little tasks I helped out with supported the organisation as a whole.

I got an insight into YMCA projects such as the new youth café at St John’s House, their youth exchange with Bethlehem YMCA and the new Hopes and Dreams art exhibition. The organisation’s work is varied and creative. Most of all it is important for young people in the area.

It’s rare to be so welcomed by and have the chance to really get involved in a national charitable organisation. I’d recommend it to anyone and everyone!