As Volunteers’ Week comes to an end for this year, Sam Squire, our Head of Volunteering at Rainbows, reflects on what volunteering looks like at Rainbows and what it means to our volunteers.
Volunteers’ Week (1-7 June) is a chance to celebrate and recognise the incredible contribution volunteers make all over the UK. And at Rainbows, with almost 400 people volunteering their time to support us, there isn’t just one specific “type” of person who volunteers with us; just as there isn’t one single way to get involved and make a difference.
If someone asked you to imagine “a volunteer”, you might be forgiven for picturing a very specific type of person.
But at Rainbows, volunteering is wonderfully varied, and I think that’s what makes it so special.
For some, it might be sorting donations, creating displays and helping our shops feel like welcoming places at the heart of their communities. For others, it might be attending an event, cheering, handing out medals, setting up or clearing down. For some, it’s adding those thoughtful touches that make our hospice such a special place for families; or offering a friendly face and practical help which enables our team to focus on what matters most for the babies, children and young people we care for.
Volunteering can be public-facing or behind the scenes, regular or occasional, practical or people-focused. Some roles suit those who love being part of a team; others suit those who prefer a quieter way of contributing. Some volunteers want to use existing skills, others want to discover new ones; while some simply bring a willingness to get stuck in wherever they’re needed.
And while volunteering at Rainbows might look different for everyone, when we ask our volunteers what they value most, some clear themes shine through.
One of the things that makes volunteering with Rainbows so special is the people and the sense of being part of a team. Whether that’s through a shared shift in one of our shops, working together at an event, or simply getting to know familiar faces over time, that sense of community is often what keeps people coming back.
For others, it’s about purpose and knowing that the time they give is making a real difference. However varied the roles might be, they are all help Rainbows support babies, children and young people. That shared purpose gives meaning to even the smallest of tasks.
Just as importantly, volunteers often tell us how much they enjoy it. There is a real sense of fun in volunteering – in the conversations, the laughter, the satisfaction of a job well done, and the simple pleasure of doing something worthwhile with your time.
Different people, different roles, but often the same sense of connection, purpose and enjoyment – all contributing to supporting the babies, children and young people who rely on Rainbows. And that’s what makes me feel like I’ve got one of the best jobs at Rainbows.
So, I simply want to say thank you.
Thank you for the time, enthusiasm and support volunteers give. Thank you for the difference you make, in big ways and small. And thank you for being part of Rainbows.
If you’ve ever thought about volunteering, this might be your moment to try something new. There are more ways to get involved than you might expect. Click here to find out more.