Whatever your reason for volunteering, you can make a positive difference, and it can be rewarding for you, organisations, and communities. Here at The Gateway, we work in collaboration with our partners and members.
We advertise volunteering opportunities and roles on our website, and we are connected to Volunteer Scotland, which offers a wide range of volunteer opportunities.
Did you know that employers view volunteering as valuable work experience? They are often impressed to see volunteering on candidates’ CVs and job applications, which can significantly enhance your chances of gaining successful employment.
You can volunteer as much or as little of your time as you wish—the choice is yours. Most roles don’t require specific qualifications, and many organisations offer training. To find the best volunteering opportunities for you, please register to volunteer:
If you’d like to discuss volunteering options directly, please contact us.
What is Volunteering?
Have you ever lent a hand at a youth or sports club or participated in a charity walk? If so, you’ve been a volunteer! A volunteer is someone who freely offers their time, through a third party, to support others.
Many charitable organisations rely on volunteers to keep running. These organisations need people who are dependable, understand their mission, and are willing to contribute to their work.
For young people, volunteering can be a great way to make new friends, learn new skills, or gain a reference for job or education applications.
The Benefits of Volunteering
Thinking about how volunteering can benefit you is a great first step in finding the right opportunity.
- Gain confidence: Volunteering lets you try new things and achieve personal goals, helping you build self-assurance.
- Make a difference: Your contribution can have a positive impact on people, communities, and society.
- Meet new people: Volunteering introduces you to different individuals and helps you make new friends.
- Feel part of a community: It allows you to connect with something bigger than just your circle of friends or family.
- Learn new skills: You can gain valuable experience and, in some cases, even qualifications.
- Take on a challenge: Volunteering encourages you to step outside your comfort zone, discover hidden talents, and set personal goals.
- Have fun: Most volunteers find their experience enjoyable and rewarding, no matter their initial motivation.
