Volunteer Week is a time to celebrate and recognize the incredible efforts of volunteers who contribute to their communities in numerous ways. Volunteering is essential not only for the positive impact it has on others but also for the profound benefits it brings to the volunteers themselves.

The Importance of Volunteering

Volunteering is a cornerstone of community support and development. It fosters a sense of solidarity and helps to bridge gaps in society by providing much-needed services and assistance to those in need. Beyond the immediate benefits to recipients, volunteering has been shown to significantly improve the wellbeing of those who give their time and effort.

Personal Benefits of Volunteering

Enhanced Wellbeing

It's human nature to feel good after helping someone. Volunteering has been linked to increased self-esteem, happiness, and overall mental health. Helping others can reduce stress, combat depression, and provide a sense of purpose.

Skill Development

Volunteering provides an opportunity to gain valuable new skills and experiences. Whether it's through hands-on activities, leadership roles, or administrative tasks, volunteers often acquire skills that are beneficial for personal and professional growth.

Confidence Boost

By stepping into new environments and taking on different challenges, volunteers can significantly boost their confidence. Success in these roles often translates to greater confidence in other areas of life.

Community Connection

Volunteers meet new people from various backgrounds, creating a diverse network of friends and acquaintances. This sense of community and belonging can be immensely rewarding.

Making a Difference

Each volunteer experience is unique, offering individuals the chance to make a positive difference in the lives of others. This contribution can range from small acts of kindness to significant, life-changing support.

Professional Growth

Volunteers gain invaluable work experience that can be advantageous in their careers. They often receive high-quality training and develop new skills, which are attractive to employers.

Utilizing Existing Skills

Volunteers can use their existing skills and knowledge to benefit the local community, allowing them to give back in a meaningful way.

Feeling Valued

Volunteers feel valued and part of a team. This recognition and sense of belonging can be very fulfilling.

Volunteer Roles and Stories

We offer a variety of volunteering roles, from engaging in activities at local branches to helping with administration or providing support to socially isolated autistic individuals. Here are an inspiring story from Josh, our charity’s Managing Director of Education and Children’s Services. In May, Josh volunteered at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

Meet Josh!

Why did you want to volunteer at RHS Chelsea?

To be able to support the wider work of the charity and work on an incredible and unique project – but also my extreme obsession with plants and gardening.

What did your role there involve?

Speaking to the public and visitors about the theme of the garden and masking, and explaining how the work of the National Autistic Society builds understanding and supports people that are impacted by it. Also telling a thousand people an hour that the pretty flowers are called candelabra primula!

What did you enjoy about volunteering at the show?

Listening to stories from visitors about how the National Autistic Society has already helped them or their family members.

What was your personal highlight?

Being able to sit in the garden after hours and enjoy the space.

Any advice to others who might be thinking about volunteering for the National Autistic Society and representing the charity at events?

Bring sunscreen and a raincoat!

Get Involved

Volunteering offers a unique opportunity to make a difference while also reaping personal benefits. If you're interested in joining our volunteer team, there are numerous ways to get involved, no matter your skills or interests. Together, we can continue to support our community and improve lives.

For more information on how to volunteer, please visit here.