Volunteering – it’s a love thing

Research reveals that an amazing 74% of people across Northern Ireland cite personal enjoyment as the top reason they volunteer, confirming that volunteering is indeed ‘a love thing’.  With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, Volunteer Now is encouraging people to spread the love, or at least the word, that people Love to Volunteer!

Two people who are definitely spreading their love of volunteering are husband and wife Carol and Alistair Sykes from Moira.

Carol was a teacher for 34 years in the Primary sector   After retiring she thought she would love just doing very little as her working life had been so busy, however Carol soon realised she needed more and missed working in a team and for the public. She registered as an events volunteer with Volunteer Now and has since been involved in a plethora of events such as the World Police and Fire Games, the Irish Open Golf at Newcastle, The Balmoral Show and has recently registered to volunteer at the iconic Open in Portrush.

Carol says “ I just love being part of a team and meeting new people so volunteering gives me this opportunity, I am also involved  in Belfast Operatic Company and a cross community choir called Toccata.  Another reason I love volunteering is that my husband Alistair is often joining me!”

Alistair who is also retired enjoys various hobbies but welcomed the opportunity to do more with my time.

He says: ‘We are very involved in supporting the Belfast Giants and when we heard that the Police and Fire Games were coming to Belfast and included ice hockey we applied to volunteer. We were successful and had a fantastic time volunteering for the week at the Odyssey. We enjoyed doing this together and loved working with new people from all walks of life.”

If you would love to try volunteering visit www.volunteernow.co.uk to search a wide range of volunteering opportunities throughout Northern Ireland.