To celebrate National Volunteers Week (June 1 to 7) we’re looking at the ways hyh’s wonderful volunteers help make a difference in their community.
And if you’d like to join them, we have plenty of opportunities available whether you’re looking to make a regular commitment or want something a bit more ad hoc.
Check out www.hyh.org.uk/volunteer for details.
Fundraising
Whether it’s taking part in challenge, organising a special event or simply holding a bake sale, volunteers play a vital role in raising funds for hyh.
We also have a dedicated ‘Friends of hyh’ group who work across the county promoting awareness of our work as well as fundraising.
www.hyh.org.uk/documents/friends-of-leaflet.pdf
“Friends is a great opportunity to do something positive about helping young people in need whilst also meeting lots of new people and getting involved in local events.” - Friends of hyh member, Juliet,
Nightstop Herts
Our Nightstop Herts emergency accommodation service wouldn’t be possible without the selfless volunteers who give up a room in their home so that a young person doesn’t have to sleep on the street.
Hosts spare a room for up to five nights at a time to a young person aged between 18 and 24 who would otherwise have nowhere else to go. www.hyh.org.uk/our-services/nightstop-herts
They can volunteer as little or as often as they like and are always given the final say on whether they want to accept a young person.
“It didn’t seem a hard thing to do to - letting someone sleep in the spare room every now and then.” - Nightstop Herts host, Sarah.
Mediation
Volunteer mediators work alongside our Mediation Team helping young people and their families to gain new skills in communication and managing conflict. This assists in preventing homelessness.
“I really believe in what mediation can do for families. Volunteering gives me the opportunity to get experience and give something back to the community.
There’s a feeling about hyh that everyone is committed to supporting young people. They’re like a big family.” - Mediation Volunteer, Katy.
Education
Volunteer Peer Educators assist our Education Team with delivering sessions to schools and youth groups about homelessness and the realities of leaving home.
“Volunteering at hyh has been such a positive experience and I can see how the skills I’ve gained are going to help me in the future. I would definitely recommend it. Hyh is just a really nice place to work.” – Education Volunteer, Laura