Dave and his wife Karen are two of our wonderful volunteers.
Dave gives us an insight into what it’s like to be a PALS volunteer and what difference it’s made to their lives...
When we were first thinking about volunteering, it’s fair to say that my wife and I fired off quite a few emails and queries.
One of the responses was from Helen at PALS.
After a chat, we all agreed it would be good for us to attend one session to see if we fit PALS and PALS fit us.
At the end Helen asked what we thought and whether we’d be back for another one. That was over 2 years ago.
In that time, we’ve discovered there’s a lot to recommend volunteering at PALS.
First off, if you’re helping at the sessions with our PALS (the children and young adults) you’ll get properly involved.
We’ve experienced tons of variety, from simple but fun craft sessions, to drama, boating and even indoor skydiving.
The rewards in personal experience and in contributing to the fun that the PALS have are rich indeed.
An example that sticks in my mind is the annual Kennet Games at our local school - it brings together a raft of teams of varying abilities, including one from PALS.
The positivity and energy you feel in that simple sports hall is quite something.
You can be sure that while there’s an amount of ‘learning as you go’, as a volunteer you are always supported by the permanent, experienced, trained, PALS staff members.
Safety of staff, volunteers and our fantastic members is always paramount, so while we seek to push the envelope on the types of activities we do, safety comes first.
You’ll never be left in a situation that you can’t handle or one where you’re not comfortable. You can ask whatever questions you need to; Helen and the team are brilliant.
We’ve certainly grown in confidence and got to know the funny, clever, energetic bunch that turn up to take part in the activities.
With the regular members there’s the chance to build real connections and for new members you’re part of the welcome wagon, getting them involved in this amazing support network.
In short, you meet a great bunch of people, doing a bunch of fun things, helping other people feel great, while feeling great about yourself.