Volunteering for Christmas..Yo-Ho-Hum

Belfastbelle

Can anyone tell me of any volunteer initiatives over christmas/new year?

I wrote off to Salvation Army and Simon Community last yr and got NO reply.

Thinking it would be a nice thing for myself and the family to do over Christmas Day/Boxing Day (soup kitchens, bit of good will etc)

Please dont tell me that we have to be vetted....

mumoffour77

It really is a great idea Belfastbelle!

Im sorry I cannot help you, but maybe ring age concern and see if there is anything you are able to help with over the christmas season....in their care homes or ring the social services and see if there is an elderly neighbour that you could look in on....always helpful esp at this time of year!!

Its unbelieveable that the 2 charities you wrote off too gave you no reply!!

Try your church, st v de paul, or even bring black santa a cuppa!!

anyways.....good luck and its nice too see the season of goodwill is still alive and well.

MOF77

belfastgirl23

I have the answer. VSB - voluntary services Belfast based in Shaftesbury Square. Great organisation, fantastic staff, they'll know if anyone is seeking volunteers.

http://www.vsb.org.uk/

ps should say they're a volunteering 'brokerage' organisation linking up volunteers with opportunities appropriate to their needs and skills

Belfastbelle

thank you folks - will try the suggestions.

Im told that the vetting check keeps a lot of charities from organising new volunteers now, which is very disappointing and way too bureaucratic...

Obviously its an insurance policy to cover any chancers BUT stops a lot of good work
Ta-ta:j

SnowyOwl_2

If you are keen to volunteer you will still be needed after Christmas - you could even keep doing it on a regular basis. I'm sure that would be greatly appreciated by the organisations and recipients more than just one or two token days.

Belfastbelle

oouch!
I do a night with teenagers once a week- but just thought it would be nice to share time at christmas.

Got the name of a hostel today - so thanks again guys:T