From 1 – 7 June 2017, it’s National Volunteers Week!
This annual event celebrates the wonderful work of volunteers. To recognise the wealth of support and talent within the city, Portsmouth Together will be hosting a Volunteers Awards Ceremony at Fratton Park on 6 June 2017.
Volunteering isn’t just good for the charity – it helps you too! Giving your time to help a project is a fantastic addition to your C.V. Most employers count volunteering as practical work experience. It gives you the chance to put newly learned skills into practice and make new friends.
In a poll by the National Volunteering Network, 98% of people said volunteering has made them happier.
Studies have shown that, in some cases, volunteering can help those suffering from depression. Supporting a good cause can give a sense of purpose, boosting self-esteem and well-being. One of the main reasons for people not wanting to volunteer is that they worry how much time it will take. However, a new concept in volunteering is helping encourage people to get involved.
‘Make a minute matter’ is a recent campaign by Portsmouth Together that highlighted all the good that can be done in less than 60 seconds. It informed people of the opportunities that can be done online. Whether it’s signing up to a charity’s website, or ‘liking’ a Facebook page, small actions can make a big difference. And it can be done anywhere.
For those who prefer hands on work, there are opportunities to give smaller amounts of time. Take for example a charity shop. Not everybody can volunteer one day a week but there are plenty who could give a few hours a month. By setting up a rota, more people could help keep our charity shops open.
For Facebook fans why not promote a good cause by liking its page, or sharing a link with friends? Do you like keeping fit: how about delivering flyers in your neighbourhood – you’ll help burn the pounds as well as broadcast that half price sale. Even a simple act of putting up a poster on your workplace noticeboard is a form of microvolunteering.
So, however you’d like to volunteer, log onto the ‘Portsmouth Together’ website: It’s simple and quick to register. Once logged in you can search for a charity to suit you.
Follow us on Facebook at: Portsmouth Together
Portsmouth volunteers Fair takes place between 10 am and 4 pm on Friday 2nd June at Cascades shopping Centre