A VAST Volunteering Case Study by Emma Lymer, Project Officer
Nurturing Nahom
When Nahom came to VAST looking for a volunteering opportunity, we chatted so I could find out a little bit more about him and his hobbies. It was important to establish why Nahom wanted to volunteer too! He wanted to develop his English and was interested in filling some of his spare time, making new friends, and becoming more involved in his local community.
Through our volunteer brokerage service, I referred Nahom to the Bloomin’ Longton project. He soon began volunteering with them, starting with a Community Action Session in Longton.
Bloomin’ Longton is a community project that brings people together to improve local green spaces while encouraging participation, wellbeing, and community involvement. Through gardening and growing activities, volunteers help make the town centre more attractive for residents and visitors alike.
I felt that Bloomin’ Longton would be a positive opportunity for Nahom, providing both practical volunteering experience and the chance to become part of a welcoming local group. Following the referral, Nahom quickly became a regular volunteer, attending weekly sessions and getting involved in all aspects of the project.
Sheila Cowell, Chairperson of Longton Community Partnership and Project Manager of Bloomin’ Longton said that Nahom settled into the role very quickly.
"Consistently arrived on time, shown a genuine willingness to work as part of a team, and also to support other volunteers and myself as the Project Manager."
Nahom has become a valued member of the team, helping to maintain working spaces, tools, and equipment, while also developing new skills and learning from those around him. The feedback from Bloomin’ Longton reflects not only his dedication but also the positive relationships he has built with fellow volunteers.
"Nahom has been a real blessing to our team - a great contributor and effective reliable volunteer.”
For me, supporting people into meaningful volunteering opportunities is about more than simply making a referral. It is about helping individuals find places where they can contribute, develop confidence, and feel connected to their community. Nahom’s experience with Bloomin’ Longton demonstrates the impact that finding the right opportunity can have for both the volunteer and the organisation.
Supporting Nahom has been a pleasure and through his commitment, this partnership has been a positive outcome for everyone involved. Nahom has found a place where he can make a meaningful contribution, and Bloomin’ Longton has gained a dedicated and valued volunteer
Nahom’s story demonstrates how our volunteer brokerage service can connect individuals with local organisations, helping community groups recruit dedicated volunteers while creating meaningful opportunities for people to become involved in their local area.
Does this sound like something you want to get involved in? There’s no time like the present!