Volunteering

An open letter from Vickie Crofts, the 2009 Volunteer of the Year

What is Hallam Volunteering? “The opportunity of a lifetime.” That is what I was told in my first week here by a student volunteer.  He said I would have the best time, meet some amazing people, and you know what?  He was right, ’cause that what has happened. I had the time of my life with Hallam Volunteering, formed friendships that I know will last forever and done some amazing things. Things I never thought possible, of myself.

So what makes Hallam Volunteering so great? Well, it’s the people, from the students to the wonderful HV staff, who though we are student-led, the staff are always there if you need them, ready to greet you with a friendly, helpful smile. However it is also the community groups themselves that allow us to work with them. The people are what make Hallam Volunteering what it is.

Since signing up three years ago and joining a brand new project, Press Gang, I was delighted as I was about to get some writing experience and knew how great it would look on my CV.  However after the first meeting with the group it was no longer about that, it was about being able to give something back to the community of Sheffield, where my home was to be for the next three years.

As I write this I can honestly say I have only looked back once – which is now as I leave University and have to leave HV behind. I can’t image what my uni life would have been without Hallam Volunteering.  Looking back nothing but a smile comes on my face, but also a small tear at what I myself have achieved over the years here and that writing this after three year reflects that it’s my last year at university and as an active Hallam Volunteer but HV and the people in it will be a part of me til I die. As I think the HV bug never leaves anyone.

From Hallam Volunteering, I will take away with me some unforgettable and amazing memories and some amazing friendships. I can’t image what my degree would have been like if I hadn’t been a part of Hallam Volunteering.  I’m glad to have be a part of it all, and would recommend anyone coming to Hallam to get involved.

Thank you all, for making Hallam Volunteering what it is, I will never forget my amazing three years as a Hallam Volunteer and will miss you all.