Celebrating our Flourish Volunteers
The work Flourish does would not happen without our incredible team of volunteers. They make a difference in everything they do!
In this post, we want to celebrate our volunteers. Here are some of their stories.
Heather - Group Mentoring Volunteer
I have been volunteering with Flourish for just over a year. I first came across Flourish following a meeting at church and the person I sat next to told me about Flourish. I went home and looked them up on Instagram, and I was really amazed at what Flourish were doing. On their social media pages, they were advertising an information evening about what they do. During the evening we heard about the role of their volunteers, and I thought that was something I could do. The reason I wanted to become a mentor is because I am able to see first-hand, as a mum of two girls and working in a higher education setting, the pressures and difficulties young people face.
I have really enjoyed volunteering with Flourish because of the people you meet: the girls; the staff; and the other mentors. There is a real sense of community and supporting each other. Before you become a mentor, you get fantastic training - it really puts you at ease and prepares you to become a mentor. I also enjoy each group mentoring session because they are fun, reflective, and thought-provoking. I have become more aware of how important mental fitness is. In a world that is always rushing, I have learnt to take a moment each day and just be still and that everything has a season and feelings pass. I would also say that because of the group mentoring, I have a better understanding of young people which has allowed me to support the students I teach better.
Alison - One to One Mentoring Volunteer
I have been volunteering with Flourish since 2021. When I heard about Flourish's work, I realised that I could be part of making a difference for girls, to help them find their unique value. In addition, I have two children who had recently been through school years, and I had seen what a difference support from many people made for them. I felt maybe I could contribute for others.
Throughout the time I have been mentoring, I’ve enjoyed having opportunity to share amazing Flourish resources with girls and spending time with them, listening to them and encouraging them. For some girls, I have seen a transformation over the weeks of mentoring; for others there have been glimpses of change. For each one, they have been equipped with resources to draw on for the rest of their lives.
I have learned that we can bring hope: giving them a safe non-judgmental space and the excellent resources is empowering, and equips them to work out change for themselves. For myself, I am amazed that I have developed the skills to be a mentor this effectively, and how fulfilling it feels to support young people in this way.
Helen - Admin Volunteer
I started volunteering for Flourish six years ago. Flourish had a talk at my church, and I really believed in the message and mission they were talking about. I started volunteering as I wanted to contribute towards supporting young people.
The best part about volunteering here is the people - working with the staff team is fantastic. They really believe in the work that they do! I’ve learned about how many people need Flourish’s support in the local community. There’s a massive need for what Flourish does, so it’s good to be able to help out!
If you’re interested in volunteering with Flourish, email us to see how you can get involved!
