Amber
Tell us about yourself
Hi, I’m Amber! I’m a second year Psychology student and I’m from Liverpool. I’ve always wanted to work helping others, which led me to study Psychology and to become a volunteer at several charities!
How did you get into volunteering?
I first got into volunteering just before starting my first year at LJMU. I wanted to gain new experience to enhance my CV but also to gain new skills and give back to my community. I originally started volunteering through Alder Hey Children’s Hospital!
What volunteering position do you have, and what are your primary duties?
At JMSU I have two volunteering positions! I’m a committee member of the Psychology Society and I volunteer at OOMOO which is a part of the Open Door Charity which I found through the volunteer opportunities on the JMSU website! As a committee member, my role is charity officer and treasurer! Within this role I help plan charity events to fundraise and manage the finances of the society! At OOMOO, my role is to help support children and help with the running of activities!
What skills are you building through volunteering?
Through my volunteering roles, I have developed skills in leadership, communication, planning, interpersonal skills and more! I have also learned CBT skills and mindfulness skills as part of my training at Open Door!
What’s the most memorable experience you have had as a volunteer?
My most memorable experience is hosting a candle painting night! This was as part of my role as charity officer, and I planned a wholesome night to just sit and paint candles whilst raising money for charity! We successfully raised almost £100, and I couldn’t have asked for a better first event!
What would you say to someone who is looking to volunteer? Do you have advice?
Just go for it! There is so much to gain by being a volunteer! Charities are so thankful for any help and support and are usually flexible around when you can help. It is a great way to gain new skills, give back to the community and have experiences that you would have never had before hand and connect with people. The help and change you can give as a volunteer can change people's lives, so don’t be afraid and give it a try!
