Volunteering

Introduction

Volunteering is a selfless act that has the power to transform lives. It is a way to give back to the community and help those in need. Volunteering can help you develop new skills, build connections, and boost your self-esteem. It is also a great way to make a difference in the lives of others. The importance of volunteering cannot be overstated, which is why it is essential to recognise and celebrate outstanding volunteerism. GALE is proud to have, one again, received the prestigious award of the Investing in Volunteers accreditation.

What is the Investing in Volunteers Award?

The Investing in Volunteers Award is a national quality standard that recognises organisations that provide excellent volunteer opportunities and management. It is a way to evaluate and recognise an organisation’s commitment to volunteerism and the management of volunteers. The award is given to organisations that demonstrate a commitment to quality volunteer management, including recruiting, training, and supporting of volunteers. It is designed to help organisations improve their volunteer management practices and to recognise those that are doing an outstanding job.

The quality standard for the award includes six indicators that cover all aspects of volunteer management. These indicators include vision, planning, inclusion, recruitment, support, and development. The standard ensures that organisations, like GALE, are providing high-quality volunteer opportunities and are treating their volunteers with respect and dignity.

Why is outstanding volunteerism being celebrated?

Volunteers play a crucial role in our communities. They help to provide vital services and support that would not be available otherwise. They also help to build strong, resilient communities by bringing people together and fostering a sense of belonging. Volunteers are the backbone of many organisations, like GALE. and without them, many services and programs would not be possible.

Volunteers inspire others to get involved and give back to their communities. Recognising outstanding volunteerism is a way to acknowledge the important contributions that volunteers make and to inspire others to get involved. The award celebrates GALE’s volunteers and we would want to show our appreciation for the hard work and dedication of our volunteers. Individually and collectively you are outstanding!

Is volunteering for me?

Yes. Volunteering offers many benefits to both the volunteer and our community. For the volunteer, it can provide a sense of purpose and fulfilment. Volunteering can also help individuals develop new skills and gain valuable experience that can be used in their personal and professional lives. Volunteers can also build connections and expand their network, which can lead to new opportunities.

For the community, volunteers provide vital services and support that can help improve the quality of life for everyone. So, whether you are a student, a retiree, or someone in between, there is an opportunity for you to volunteer. Volunteering can help you gain new skills, meet new people, and make a difference in your community. It is also a great way to give back and feel good about yourself.

How to get involved

We are always looking for volunteers to help out in The GALE Centre and our other projects, such as the Community Growing project.

Gain some experience working in different areas, learn something new or take part in training. Some of our volunteers have even gone on to become employees of the Trust!

Contact our Volunteer Coordinator today to find out how you can contribute to our current projects – volunteering@galeactionforum.co.uk

"Being involved as part of the GALE volunteering team continues to be a valuable and fulfilling experience for me on many levels. The sense of achievement, belonging, and accomplishment that community action brings, and communal spirit through friendships and commitment to community cause is far greater than anything I achieve in my paid work. The sense of freedom that I am working because I want to and because I believe in the value of what I do, not for money but for community good is liberating. I believe passionately that growing food by and for the community, creating productive outdoor spaces to encourage education and wellbeing while helping to offset our collective carbon footprint is a win-win. My biggest wish is that more folk join in and I can share the joy I experience. I am lucky to have enough income to work part time and allow time for volunteering, but even half an hour here and there gives a boost to my mental wellbeing - why not try it you might be surprised not by what you give but by what you receive!"

Conclusion

Volunteering is a rewarding experience that benefits both the volunteer and the community. GALE’s continued Investing in Volunteers accreditation is a testament to our ongoing commitment to providing excellent volunteer opportunities and management.

We encourage everyone to get involved in volunteering and to celebrate outstanding volunteerism – whether it is with GALE or any other community group. If you would like to volunteer at GALE, please complete the contact form below.