I’m new to the world of volunteering, having spent the past 20+ years focusing on my professional career. Recently I found myself thinking more and more that I want to contribute from my time to help others in the community, but I was afraid that it may be too demanding to juggle with my work load and family obligations.

I therefore registered on the JVN website (www.jvn.org.uk), to be able to browse the variety of volunteering opportunities they offer. It is an amazing gateway to all sorts of roles, allowing you to choose a cause that is close to your heart and volunteer at your pace, depending on your time availability, skills and interests.

I decided to start with a relatively small commitment, of running a monthly film afternoon at one of the care homes which is a part of the Jewish Blind & Disabled organisation (www.jbd.org) and, hopefully grow and develop into other opportunities over time.

The volunteering activity gives me a sense of belonging to my community, makes me feel appreciated for the little things I could do to help others and gives me much satisfaction to see the happiness I bring to other people’s life.

Thank you JVN & JBD for enabling me to choose the right opportunity for me!