Meet our Sunday volunteer Ali
How long have you been volunteering with Camrose?
My first session was in April last year and I volunteer one Sunday a month. I came to hear about the Centre from my friend, who also volunteers, and I started following Camrose on social media before making contact to offer my time.
What has been the most rewarding and the most challenging part of the role?
The most rewarding aspect is chatting to clients and helping in small ways. I may be the only person to ask how they are that day and being able to do something simple like finding a thicker sleep bag, or an extra warm coat in the storeroom that I can give to someone in need to make them more comfortable is rewarding. I would say that my listening skills have improved since starting at the Centre.
Understanding that I cannot ‘fix’ someone has been the most challenging part.
What would you say to anyone thinking of volunteering at Camrose?
Sign up! The team is very well run, at each session we are assigned a role and there is lots of variation. Some weeks I am signing clients in, others making tea and coffee and sometimes a mixture of everything (but I don’t cook – that definitely isn’t my area of expertise!). You sign up to whatever sessions you would like to cover, with no pressure to do more.
Can you describe Camrose in 3 words?
A non-judgemental, friendly and a safe-haven
