“In November 2012, I decided to put myself forward as a volunteer.  I had already enrolled on a Btec Level 1 Business Administration course with the City of Bristol College.  This would only take up one day a week and I was attending work club one morning per week.  I needed to do something practical: volunteering was that something.

I contacted Knowle West Media Centre – I heard that they needed volunteers for their Front of House.  I was invited to go along to an informal interview which most certainly set me at ease.  I then attended an introduction day with other volunteers.  We were shown around the building which is great in itself.  We were also informed of all the interesting things that go on there.

I decided to give ten hours per week over two days.  I did all sorts of administrative duties: from filing and printing to covering reception, from being involved in large projects to greeting visitors.

The whole team at the centre were great to work with: they were welcoming and understanding.  I felt like part of a truly brilliant team who go out of their way to help the community.  They offer several courses from basic ICT to photography, media and music.  These courses are for people of all ages.

It is just a great place to regain your confidence and make you feel like you have made a difference.  I can’t thank all the staff enough for giving me the opportunity.

Here at KWMC,
Everyone is, oh, so bubbly,
What a great time I have had,
Now I have left, is, oh, so sad.

The team, just great and friendly,
Some of them young and trendy,
Always there, ready to help others,
Just like a family of sisters and brothers.

A few hours a week of your help will do,
With music, photography and I.T. too,
So, go on, give it a go,
Use all your knowledge, put it on show.”

(Michelle Price, Front of House Volunteer) Find out more about volunteering here.