Amazing experiences

People start volunteering for all kinds of reasons - to get work experience, to make new friends, to travel the world or just because they want something to do. But the reason they keep volunteering is often because it offers the kind of experiences that money can't buy, as The Maccabees found out when they volunteered in Malawi with vinspired Lake of Stars festival.

For many, it's the satisfaction of making a difference that keeps them going. Kayleigh Osborne, 20, volunteers as a peer educator with The Respect Team in Essex, giving advice to young people on sex and relationship issues. 

"Before, I’d have wondered what the point of working for free could be.  But now I love teaching in schools.  The most rewarding part of my day is to know that I’ve helped one person, perhaps changed their mind about one thing.  We get asked for advice, and now I’ve got the answers to help them to be informed.  To come away and know that I’ve helped someone is great."

Holly Shaw, 22, set up The Gift of Life campaign to promote organ donation after receiving a life-changing kidney transplant. Her campaign has been widely publicised and won praise from the Prime Minister.

"It’s been full of rewards.  I’ve met people I wouldn’t have done previously, experienced new things, and it’s really worthwhile.  If you feel passionate about it, it’s not really hard work.  You may not get financial gains, but the personal gains are enormous, as well as the benefit of learning new skills."

Jack Mason, 17, from East London, campaigns against anti-social behaviours and crime. He says he does it for the love of it.

"Volunteering isn’t something I do for thanks or accolades.  Helping others gives me a warm feeling.   As long as I can make a difference to one person, it’s the best feeling in the world, a little inch of difference each day, that’s all I want."

To find something you'll love to do, search for volunteering opportunities on vinspired.