Volunteer Week

Hi, I am Anya Deputat and my role within A Way Out is to recruit, train and retain volunteers and this is one of the most rewarding jobs I have ever done!

Without volunteers it would be impossible for A Way Out to positively change lives in the way that we do.  Our volunteers are so valuable to the organisation in many different ways – assisting our Youth team with regular weekly Youth sessions; preparing food and crafts for our weekly vulnerable women’s drop-ins; teaming up with Women’s Service staff during regular evening outreach; providing admin assistance; decorating and repairing the building; the list is endless!

Our volunteers come to us from all areas of life from students commencing university studies, to people embarking upon retirement.  People fit in their volunteering around studying, work and family commitments making a very real difference in their spare time.

Our youngest supporter so far this year is 10 year old Grace.  Too young to undertake a specific ‘official’ volunteering role, Grace was so captured by our work and determined to support the charity, that she came up with an inspiring idea – Grace contacted everyone she knew – friends, family, church and young people’s groups – she shouted out her idea and drummed up support.  Then, for the next 7 hours Grace went completely silent… Her supporters sponsored her silence by donating items food and toiletries… to the sound of over 450 items!!  These items will be used to provide food parcels for A Way Out’s weekly drop-ins. Isn’t Grace amazing?

This month is National Volunteer month, and to celebrate this A Way Out will be giving people the opportunity to hear more about the life changing experiences of our volunteers at our event entitled “Doors Open at A Way Out”.  This is your opportunity to come along and be inspired and motivated.  The event will take place on 15^th June in the A Way Out building at Stockton’s Riverside between 12.30 and 3.30pm.  Join us for cake and refreshments, hear encouraging and moving stories from our very own volunteers and find out about how you too can support our work and make a huge difference to the lives of others in our community.

If you are unable to come along on 15^th but would like to find out more about our volunteering opportunities please go to our website www.awayout.co.uk , or email info@awayout.co.uk or telephone me, Anya Deputat on 01642 655071.