"I would recommend volunteering as it is so rewarding. You are part of a team and everyone is friendly."

ParkPlay is a simple community-focused initiative that transforms your local green spaces on Saturday mornings into vibrant community gatherings. Taking place every Saturday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, ParkPlay offers two hours of free fun in parks and open spaces across the country. Here in Letchworth, Jackmans ParkPlay, invites residents of all ages to rediscover the joy and life-changing power of play. Supported by Sport England, Hertfordshire County Council and the Herts Sport & Physical Activity Partnership, Jackmans ParkPlay is part of a larger mission to promote physical activity and community engagement. The event encourages families and individuals to come together, enjoy our beautiful green spaces, and engage in a variety of informal games and activities. Focused on short games and playground fun for the whole family, ParkPlay creates an inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of age or ability, can participate and have fun. However, the magic of ParkPlay would not be possible without the dedication of its volunteers. At the heart of every ParkPlay session is a team of passionate individuals who bring energy, enthusiasm, and a genuine love for their local communities. These volunteers work alongside a qualified ParkPlay leader to help set up games, encourage participation, and ensure that everyone feels welcome. Their efforts are crucial to creating the positive, inclusive atmosphere that makes ParkPlay so special. Volunteering at ParkPlay can be a deeply rewarding experience, as described by Ian Lalite, a regular volunteer at ParkPlay. “Volunteering at ParkPlay on Saturday mornings has been incredibly rewarding for my wife and me,” Ian shares. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time together as a family, and we love how it brings us closer to our community. The environment is welcoming, and we’ve had the chance to meet new people, forging friendships with others who share our values. Plus, the physical activities involved provide us with some much-needed exercise, making our weekends productive and fulfilling.” Ian’s experience highlights the multiple benefits of volunteering at ParkPlay. Not only does it offer a chance to give back to the community, but it also provides an opportunity for personal growth and connection with other families in your local area. Volunteering at ParkPlay allows individuals to build new relationships, stay active, and contribute to the well-being of their community. For those interested in making a difference, volunteering at your local ParkPlay is a perfect opportunity. Whether you’re looking to meet new people, spend quality time with your family, or simply enjoy the outdoors, ParkPlay offers a unique and fulfilling way to get involved. Join us on your Saturday morning and experience firsthand the joy of playing, moving, and connecting with your community. For more information contact Adam Nnochiri at [email protected] or visit the ParkPlay website on https://park-play.com/

To prepare for Volunteer's month, we wanted to share some insights into the value of volunteers and why people are motivated to volunteer in their communities. In every community, volunteers form the lifeblood of countless charities and organisations. Their dedication and selflessness empower initiatives that might otherwise struggle to succeed. Volunteers bring invaluable skills, passion, and energy, making a profound impact on the lives of individuals and the health of entire communities. Without their contributions, many essential services and programs would be unsustainable, that's why GoVolHerts is dedicated to support volunteers and organisations to connect together. Why are volunteers so valuable? Their efforts extend beyond mere manpower. Volunteers offer fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a genuine commitment to causes they care about. They help organisations save costs, allowing more funds to be directed towards critical missions. Additionally, the presence of volunteers enhances the credibility and reach of charities, fostering greater community engagement and support. Why do people volunteer? Here are five compelling reasons: Personal Fulfillment : Many people find deep satisfaction in giving back to their communities. The sense of accomplishment and joy derived from helping others can be a powerful motivator. Skill Development: Volunteering offers a unique opportunity to learn new skills or refine existing ones. Whether it's leadership, communication, or technical skills, volunteers can gain valuable experience that enhances their personal and professional growth. Social Connections: Volunteering is a fantastic way to meet new people and build lasting relationships. It creates a sense of community and belonging, connecting individuals with similar passions and values. Career Advancement: For many, volunteering can be a stepping stone to career advancement. It provides networking opportunities, enhances resumes, and sometimes leads to job offers within the organisation or related fields. Making a Difference: Above all, the desire to make a tangible difference in the world drives many to volunteer. Knowing that their efforts contribute to meaningful change and positively impact lives is a powerful incentive. Thank you for being part of our volunteer community. Your dedication and passion are what make our shared mission possible. Together, we can continue to drive positive change and support those in need. Have you signed up for a free account with GoVolHerts? Start your volunteering journey today!

We are very fortunate to have some amazing volunteers who dedicate their time to support our mission. Alex has been volunteering as part of his Duke of Edinburgh Award… “I'm Alex, a 16-year-old who's passionate about lending a helping hand and connecting with people. My journey with volunteering began when I was just 14, participating in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award (DoE) at Willow’s Welwyn Garden shop. At first, stepping into the world of volunteering was a bit daunting for me, but I quickly embraced the challenge. Jumping right into meeting people and learning the ropes of customer service, I found myself thriving outside of my usual comfort zone. Now, at 16, I'm comfortable working the till and assisting customers with a smile. Volunteering here has been an incredible opportunity not just to give back, but to grow personally too. One of the highlights of my time here has been building a close working relationship with Jan, a fellow volunteer. Jan's guidance and support have been invaluable in my journey, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to learn from her experience. I particularly enjoy working alongside Jan, sorting through the books. There's something satisfying about organising and categorising them together. During my shifts, you'll often find me sorting books, DVDs, and hanging clothes. I dedicate two hours every Saturday to contribute to the shop's mission. Volunteering has really boosted my confidence and broadened my horizons. It's incredible how much I've grown in just a short time. From starting as a bronze-level participant to reaching gold status for my DoE Award, it's been an amazing journey of growth and learning. Outside of volunteering, I'm into music, especially playing the flute. But my real passion lies in making a difference and being friendly and helpful wherever I go. Volunteering here isn't just about the present; it's an investment in my future. Every day teaches me something new and adds value not just to the shop, but to my own personal and professional development. I'm excited to keep growing, making a difference, and spreading positivity wherever I can. If you're ever around Welwyn Garden City, come in and say hi!” We’re always looking for new volunteers, so please do take a look at our latest volunteering opportunities on www.willowfoundation.org.uk/volunteer #Volunteering #DukeOfEdinburgh #willowvolunteers