| Maggie is 38 and from Galway. Tell us a bit about yourself: I became a parent at 17 so am just now completing my college degree! I love running, walking with my best buddy Benji the terrier and am a dedicated bookworm. |
When did you start volunteering ?
It’ll be 6 years ago this June
Why did you start volunteering?
I hadn’t gone on to college and I work alone in an office. I wanted to get back into some sort of learning and to develop connections similar to a work environment.
What role are you currently volunteering in and can you tell us about it?
I work with Childline and I’ve been trained to take calls and to engage with children online/text. I volunteer for a 4 hour shift, once a week. Since I’ve been there, I have been trained as a mentor and a practice support person. On shift, I can be the point of contact for other volunteers who may need some support or have some queries. We actively listen to children, without judgement and without giving direction.
What is the best thing about volunteering in your own opinion?
The sense of achievement and the sense of helping. I enjoy the sense of community within the unit also.
What would you say to someone who was thinking about starting volunteer work?
It is beneficial in ways you wouldn’t think of! Socially, mentally, it can open up more opportunities for you also