Polly’s Volunteer Story
I began my volunteer journey in January 2022. Between studying for my degree and working, I still had some spare time and I didn’t want to waste it – I wanted to do something nice. I study psychology and I like what Wellbeing Works stands for – the mental health aspect, but also the Community Toolbox - nobody else does that. It is an organisation that has initiative and actually wants to help the community, and I wanted to be part of that.
Polly’s done many things: she helped put up almost all of our art installations, she drew Charlie, and worked with participants to paint plant pots, make friendship bracelets (all sold out!), and print mugs.
I feel like volunteering gives me purpose - it really moves me when participants tell me how much our work helps. When they think they don’t have a creative bone in them, but then they discover that part of themselves, and find it relaxing and healing, and I helped facilitate that - that is so big for me. And helping participants develop friendships and seeing people's relationships grow over the weeks is so nice.
“The word ‘volunteering’ can sound grey but volunteering itself is a really colourful experience. ”
I’ve really loved meeting everyone here and having a blether. I’m so much more confident now, but I used to be a mousey person; one of those extroverted introverts - chatty but only with people I know. Now I can just be chatty, and not just with one type of person. The staff and participants here all have such diverse stories and backgrounds.
Volunteering isn’t boring. It might sound boring to some people but it's not. You come and you have a laugh and you feel like you’ve done something productive.
If you’re not sure, come and suss the vibe out, pop in and you’ll realise how friendly everyone is and you’ll want to be part of it!
All our groups and activities are only possible through the generous support of our community. Click Here to see ways you can support us or get involved in our mission to improve mental health in Dundee.