Voluntary Action Islington using volunteers

Nelson started volunteering with Voluntary Action Islington in February 2010. Bridget, the Volunteer Centre manager, explains how helpful he has been. Nelson also says why he likes volunteering at the centre so much.

"Nelson called in at one of our volunteer drop-in sessions to find out about volunteering, and started to volunteer very soon afterwards. He has shown huge enthusiasm and commitment and has picked up the necessary skills very quickly. He is a real asset to the Volunteer Centre team."

Nelson says, "I have thus far enjoyed my time here immensely and have learnt a multitude of new things. Also everyone here is friendly and supportive.

I have learnt how to use V-Base, export and attach pdf's, use the internet for research (e.g.: organisation locations) and create email templates on Word.

I am really happy here, and in many ways this would be my dream job and the ideal career path I would like to embark on. I used to have a negative opinion of volunteering, thinking that it was some form of exploitation because of the working for no money. I no longer feel this way and I regret I didn’t do volunteering sooner. This is because I am learning valuable new skills and gaining experience, my self-confidence has improved and have met some really lovely people. In general I feel that my volunteering experience thus far has been a positive, enlightening and most worthwhile experience. I would recommend volunteering to everyone, you have nothing to lose!”