Karen Wright has been volunteering at the Hope Centre since June. Working within the Fundraising and Marketing team, Karen says she has learned new skills, grown in confidence and always had new tasks to get stuck into.

Here’s her story……

“I knew instantly that Hope would be perfect for me to gain hands on experience in an office-based environment. I also knew I would leave each shift with a great sense of satisfaction that I contributed. My instant feelings were proven right.

Coming to volunteer at the Hope Centre has been a wonderful experience. It is particularly important to me as I have encountered homelessness myself (although I was provided with shelter). Homelessness is very complex and I would always advocate how necessary a service like Hope is.

Being able to help with the administration and IT, means the Fundraising team can spend more time approaching organisations and corresponding with individuals who are able to raise money for us.

Having had no experience of an office, my confidence has grown. I have learnt computer skills and have managed many administration duties. The role has always been varied and interesting. Never has there been an occasion whereby I haven’t been given guidance when learning new tasks and, over time.

Volunteering here allows you to feel empowered to contribute and learn. Volunteering simply means having a willingness to offer time, skills and an ability to communicate, as well as be part of a team.

My volunteering experience will hopefully lead to employment. The skills here are transferable to many situations – I really would endorse volunteering here. The team as a whole really appreciate volunteers and the skills and experience we are able to contribute. Coming here has been by far the best volunteering role I have undertaken.”

Louise Hope’s Fundraising Manager said: “Karen has been a huge asset to our team. She contributes so much to our team and we love having her in the office. We are looking for more volunteers to help with specific projects such as challenge events, fundraising campaigns and collections. If you’re interested, give me a call and come and meet the fundraising team”.

If you fancy volunteering at the Hope Centre, please contact our volunteer co-ordinator, Georgina on 01604 214300 or volunteering@northamptonhopecentre.org.uk