If there is one thing that
Give to Gain has taught us, is that, when it comes to volunteering, there is
something to learn for and from everyone, no matter the age or the experience.
This is what happens in the Ashley Club, up north in Manchester
The club provides a varied
activity-based programme of informal education that fosters and
develops skills, talents and values in both members and young volunteers, enabling
them to become young achievers of the future. At the Ashley Club, young girls
can test their cookery skills in ‘Masterchef’ and ‘Bake off’ competitions,
enjoy nature in ‘Get Muddy!’, express their creativity in the ‘Crafts’ sessions
and discover new places during the weekends away.
Nothing would be possible
without the help of many amazing young women who volunteer their time and
skills to give the girls the time of their life! The task is not easy: if you
asked them, volunteers would tell you how hard it is to make sure participants
understand instructions and don’t loose interest throughout the session. But
challenges offer these young women a unique opportunity to build up their
skills and grow their confidence. Mareike told us how important being always
organized is. Wendy, who accompanied the girls on a weekend trip, learnt that patience
is one of the best strengths, while Eunice is grateful for the chance to
develop her ability to speak in public, adjusting the register to the audience.
Every volunteer learns something from the experience and from the girls!
Ashley clubs members are
happy to share their experiences! Thanks to Wendy’s passion for photography,
activities are always well documented. She has recently started a new project:
a 20 minutes film on the weekend in Thornycroft. Other volunteers helped in the
script writing, production and casting of the club girls. Some of them also got
involved on the final editing. I am looking forward to watching it!
If you are interested in
Ashley Club and would like to know more, get inspired or even get involved, do
not hesitate to contact us:
g2g.dhef@gmail.com
