Celebrating our amazing volunteers

In the past year:

• 108 people volunteered with Porchlight, including 40 people who began volunteering with us for the first time
• They did everything from supporting people face-to-face and providing translation services to giving fundraising talks and building websites
• They collectively gave up 5,135 hours – the equivalent of £92,541 of support which makes a massive difference to a charity like ours.

It’s hard to overstate the impact volunteers have on people we work with. Their skills, ideas and compassion transform lives.

“They make you feel like you matter. They don’t have to be here, but they are. They’re always happy to help and willing to listen. I don’t think I’d be where I am without their support” – resident who’s been supported by our volunteers.

Their amazing contributions are also invaluable to our staff. They say that if it wasn't for the generosity of our volunteers, Porchlight wouldn’t be able to work with as many people as it does.

They also play a vital role in helping people to feel like part of the community again:

“Our volunteers ensure that clients build a group of positive people around them. We wouldn’t be able to provide the same quality of support without their help” – Simone, homelessness manager

We’re particularly proud of the volunteers who used to be supported by Porchlight and now want to help others. Nearly a quarter of our volunteers have previously been supported by our services.

The compassion and kindness of our volunteers continues to be an inspiration.

"The few hours a week I spend can make such an incredible change in someone else’s life. It’s so rewarding knowing they have a second chance. I am immensely proud to be involved with this wonderful charity and the work it does… I can’t imagine not doing it now" – Glenn, volunteer

“I look forward to my Fridays. It’s the one day of the week I feel like I’m making a difference’’ – Kieron, volunteer

But it’s not just a one-way street. All volunteers are offered the same training as staff because we want to help them gain valuable experience and develop their skills. We’re delighted to say that five people have gained jobs as a result of their volunteering over the past 12 months.

Ultimately, our volunteers are indispensable. We couldn’t do what we do without them.

To our volunteers: thank you for everything you contribute to Porchlight, the local community and society as a whole.