Volunteer Vault #26

For April we hand over the Volunteer Vault to Jenna (below left), who tells us more about her match with Shai (below right).

- How long have you been volunteering with Gig Buddies?

I’ve lost track, but I think about 3 years now! I’ve been paired with my current buddy Shai for just over a year.

- Is Gig Buddies your first volunteering role?

I’d done quite a bit of volunteering in the past for animal based organisations, but Gig Buddies was my first volunteer role with people.

- Why do you volunteer with Gig Buddies?

I really believe in the amazing work that Gig Buddies does as an organisation and it feels like a very easy, fun and impactful way to make a contribution to someone’s life (and to mine!)

- How would you describe your volunteering experience with Gig Buddies?

It’s been amazing.

I have learnt so much about the lived experience of people with disabilities, made so many friends and had some excellent experiences.

It’s definitely opened my eyes to a whole new part of life that I had limited exposure to.

- Tell us about some of the highlights from your time volunteering with Gig Buddies?

Getting to march and dance in the Mardi Gras Parade twice has to be a highlight! So much fun and I felt really proud to be a part of it representing Gig Buddies.

A few months ago I also got to go to Shai’s solo art exhibition which was incredible. He is a very talented artist and puts a lot of effort into his paintings.

- What would you say to someone reading this who is thinking about volunteering with Gig Buddies?

You won’t regret it! It doesn’t feel like volunteering, just hanging out with a friend and you’ll get to meet so many interesting people (and hopefully get to do lots of karaoke!)

"You won’t regret it!"

We want to thank Jenna for taking the time to share her story.

Jenna and Shai are a perfect example of what we’re all about: two mates catching up and having a good time together.

And we’re always on the lookout for more people like Jenna. If you would like to volunteer with us, look no further: to sign up with our Sydney project click here, and jump on this link to get involved on the Central Coast.

And to find out more about our current openings, click on the 'volunteers wanted' images below.

Are you looking to volunteer?