Young People in Sheffield (UK) get busy for International Volunteering Day.
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For Sheffield Futures, International Volunteer Day always signifies a hectic schedule. The Sheffieldr team organised a group of volunteers and offered support to local health charity SHINE Health Academy which helps teens combat weight issues. The team assembled a group of over 15 volunteers who kick started the renovations to SHINE’s new premises by stripping wood chip from the walls. The group steamed ahead and cleared the walls in the kitchen and dining room.
Volunteers and student Collette Gardener said that “it’s nice to give to people in need and our time is free.” Volunteer Dan Pool, commented: “I’ve really enjoyed today, it has felt good for the soul. It’s been hard work but it’s great when you see the results.”
Most of the group had never volunteered before and all asked on the day whether they could return to finish the DIY needed to make SHINE an inviting environment for young people in Sheffield.
Kath Sharman, Managing Director of SHINE Health Academy thanked the team for all of their hard work. Kath commented: “Everything we do is thanks to volunteers; we’re all strangers who have come together as a team. It never ceases to amaze me how kind people are when it comes to giving their time to help needy groups like ours and words cannot express our gratitude.
Emily Marshall, Volunteer Manager at Sheffield Futures said: “more volunteers will get the chance to take part in one-off events to continue re-decorating SHINE’s new home. Donations of furniture or soft furnishings are also welcome.”
Sheffieldr also held their first community workshop in Burngreave
to promote what we can do for you!
The aim of the workshop was to find out what young people
want in Burngreave, including activities they would like to attend. We asked
why Burngreave was a great place to live and what the best activities were for
young people. Our other aim was to tell people about volunteering and to see
whether anyone had suggestions or ideas about an event or activity that they
could put on in their area. We want to empower people to make positive change
in their area, and support them to provide new and exciting things to do for
young people.
The event was very well-attended with both young people and
those who were interested in volunteering. Our team learnt a lot about what young
people want in their area: including learning skills that will help with
employability.
A focus group has been set up for later this week to discuss
what is needed in Burngreave and how we can help.