Hi My name is Steve and I am a member of GwirForce. GwirForce is a panel of young people who take a lead in youth volunteering in Wales. I also volunteer at my local youth club and on my local youth forum. I think its important for myself and indeed for other young people to volunteer in ways like this as it gives you a sense of belonging and, as in the case of GwirForce and my youth forum we make decisions that will in hindsight effect young people like our selves. Being the voice of those that are too shy to speak out is immense. I enjoy it because you are representing them and making a difference. I attend residential events, meetings and planning sessions all with this is mind. – Steve Sellers, Member of GwirForce.

In my role as a scout leader, I've had so many opportunities to try activities that I wouldn't have done otherwise, such as rock climbing and going to Gilwell Park for an open day, which was a fantastic inspiration to me as a new volunteer. Volunteering with St John Ambulance Wales is special. As an organisation it can offer so many opportunities in so many different areas, and you really do get a lot in return, I can’t see myself not being a member as I’ll always be able to give back something in return for all I have gained. – Neil Chadwick St John Ambulance and the Scouts Association

Being a volunteer is incredibly important to me, I feel that I am able to give something back to the communities that I live in. But also, volunteering gives skills and experiences which have helped me through school, university and my social life. – Fiona Laycock, St John Ambulance

I volunteer for several reasons. I really enjoyed myself as a Brownie and a Guide and had a fantastic experience. I had the chance to do so many different things, to meet so many different people and make a lot of friends. I want others to have the same opportunities as I did, and I want them to enjoy it the way I still do. There’s nothing like seeing the girls enjoying the activities; smiling, laughing, making new friends and becoming more self-confident. – Helen Williams, Girlguiding

You might be thinking ‘Why would I give up my time to get nothing in return?’ but volunteering isn’t about doing something for nothing. You can gain so many things from the experience. You can;

• Make tons of new friends
• Learn new skills
• Help make your community a better place to live, for you and others
• Find out about future careers
• Gain qualifications
• Have fun!

Many volunteering organisations are able to pay out of pocket expenses, which means, they can reimburse your travel so it won’t cost you to help them. They offer lots of training and support to help you develop your skills and often offer references if you are applying for jobs or courses.

GwirForce are a group of like minded young people who volunteer in their communities and who have got together to tell other young people about what an amazing experience volunteering can be. By joining GwirForce you will have the opportunity to have your voice heard, make important decisions and be involved in a many consultations for different organisations. You will have the chance to meet new friends, gain some valuable experience and access some useful training. If you would like to join them you can find out how by clicking here.

For more information about the types of opportunities there are to volunteer in your area contact your local youth volunteering advisor or visit www.volunteering-wales.net.