Pandemic Volunteering Stories - Dan and Imi, Give a Few Words Volunteers
We have been volunteering during the pandemic in a number of ways. The Jubilee Centre posts requests for specific items that families need; so we keep a regular eye on what is required and we have ‘raided’ our wardrobes, parents and grandparents wardrobe for shoes and clothing to donate.
We also volunteer with Give a Few Words which provides letters to people who are socially isolated, included Care Home residents. When we heard about this fantastic initiative we couldn’t wait to help! Our letters take approximately 30 minutes to write, the subject steered mainly around the interests of the recipient although we do talk about our day, hobbies and life in general!
It feels great to share although all our details are kept confidential as we are only 14 year’s old. Our parents check our letters beforehand, just to ensure the grammar and content ‘hits the right note’. It’s an absolute pleasure to be involved and always look forward to details being sent through. We heard about Westend football club needing extra volunteers through ‘The Jubilee Centre’. They have been outstanding, providing much needed stationary to those less fortunate which we ‘packed’ for individuals. Schools provided details of pupils needing extra support – it felt so good to ‘give something back’. Also, a vast amount of wool was provided to the club so that we could arrange for hats to be knitted for premature babies (SCBU – Special care baby unit – at the HRI). As we were both ‘premi’s’, being on ventilators & tube fed for the first few weeks of our lives, this has been really quite special to us; our Nana, Grandma & Auntie have been ‘knitting away’ so we have a rather large pile all good to go!
What have you found rewarding or memorable about your experience?
Dan says, “Writing letters throughout quarantine has been really fulfilling, showing kindness and caring to others”.
Imi says, “I have loved writing letters, during this difficult time. Writing the letters has made me feel happy that I was able to do something positive to help other people during lockdown”.
Find out more
To find out more about Give a Few Words visit: https://thegive.co.uk/
To find out more about Westend Juniors FC Community Champions initiative visit: http://westendjuniors.com/community/