As part of Volunteer’s Week (Monday 2nd – Sunday 8th June) we’d like to recognise and celebrate our amazing volunteers by focusing on their stories. By giving their time and skills, they help us to support some of the most disadvantaged people in Wolverhampton.
We asked Nika the following questions:
What do you do at the Good Shepherd?
I volunteer on the food service on Mondays and on Fridays I shadow Emma (a senior volunteer) as part of my LEAP training.
Why did you decide to volunteer and how long have you been volunteering?
As part of my Health and Social Care qualification I need to have work experience, and I really wanted a place where I get to talk and help my community, and I was very excited when Julia came to my college. I applied to be a volunteer because I was really curious to know more about all the ways the Good Shepherd were changing lives and hopefully, I can contribute to that.
What do you find the most fulfilling about volunteering here?
I struggled a lot with my mental health and insecurities, and I will never forget my first day at the Good Shepherd.It was the first time in a while that there wasn’t a battle in my mind. It was just quiet in my mind, and I was just so focussed on the people around. Observing how Good Shepherd was like a safe space for them, to meet friends and laugh and that touched my heart.
Why do you feel the work of the Good Shepherd is important in Wolverhampton?
I love how the Good Shepherd just fosters a culture of second chances because everyone I get to work with is an inspiration and proof that you are not your trauma and life can change. I think that gives hope to all the service users too. Everyone is going through something but sometimes all you need is just for someone to give you a chance and believe in you, and that’s what the Good Shepherd does.
Describe the Good Shepherd in three words?
Home, community, unwavering.
Image features Nika’s artwork.