This Volunteers’ Week at Spark, we’re celebrating all of our volunteers and the contributions they make to our service every single day. Thank you so much for time you give and the incredible support you bring to our clients. You are all amazing.
Here’s the story of one of our incredible volunteers…
In late 2021, I engaged with services to get support with my alcohol addiction. Due to severe health issues related to my addiction, funding was granted for in-patient detox and six months of rehab.
When I successfully completed my rehab in August 2023, I approached Spark and asked about volunteer opportunities. The process was seamless and I was soon volunteering in various departments. I was able to use previous skills from past employment and quickly became a valuable member of the team.
Quite often, volunteers can be undervalued and unappreciated. However, this was never the case at Spark.
I was put through all the training opportunities I needed and wanted. Not only that, I also had the opportunity to complete Combination Learning Programmes, which included Counselling Level 2. I have regular supervision with Andy, my supervisor, to ensure all training needs are met and if there are any other areas which need addressing.
From volunteering to employment
Following six months of volunteering, a job opportunity arose, and I was encouraged to apply for it. The role is Early Abstinence Recovery Support worker, 15 hours per week, which was ideal to help me gain confidence and establish myself into the workplace following four years of unemployment.
Working in services and supporting others who are on their journey to freedom from addiction, has been an ambition of mine for several years. Giving back to the organisation that saved my life has boosted my confidence and self-esteem significantly.
Following years of hopelessness whilst in addiction, I now feel like I’m contributing to society. I cannot recommend volunteering with Spark highly enough. It has changed my life so much for the better.
If you would like to volunteer at Spark, then please get in touch today. Call us on 01254 495014 or email BWD@calico.org.uk