George

What made you want to become a volunteer with CHAS?

One of the reasons I wanted to join CHAS in the first place was to build my confidence in a working environment - I had little experience with this kind of stuff before and wanted to volunteer somewhere that would give me that experience while also allowing me to pick up additional skills along the way. Not only that, but it would also give me more references and info to stick on my CV, which is a nice bonus!

What does your volunteering involve?

My main role here is working behind the till which I enjoy because it’s nice meeting customers, but I also sort through the donations and figure out what needs to be auctioned off or kept. Anything that looks in good nick I price and send out. Some days are pretty busy but I actually prefer when it is - it feels really good to be productive, and it’s very rewarding once everything is sorted and done at the end of a day.

What do you enjoy about your volunteering?

My favourite thing about volunteering is definitely working with people, not just with other volunteers but also with the community; I like to get involved and I feel like I’m making a difference by doing so. Also, while I’m still on the subject, I guess I should mention how cool the staff are! They’re always available whenever I have a question or need help with something, and they’re also just great fun to be around!

What would you say to anyone looking to volunteer?

Volunteering here has been really great, there’s always something to do and there’s never a day that goes by that leaves me dissatisfied. Signing up was very simple and easy. I had a small interview and then got assigned to the role I’m currently doing shortly after. So if you’re considering volunteering, go for it! The experience you get is valuable for future opportunities, and it’s also really fun.