A VAST Volunteering Case Study
The Power of Micro-Volunteering
How partnership working with other organisations can support individuals to volunteer: Building Confidence and Community Through Micro-Volunteering.
As part of VAST’s mission to support individuals to experience the benefits of volunteering in managing anxiety and building confidence as well as preparing individuals to take the step towards engaging in formal volunteer roles, VAST facilitated a micro volunteering opportunity in collaboration with Changes Health & Wellbeing.
Changes Health & Wellbeing is a vital provider of mental health support services for children, young people, and adults across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire.
The day aimed to:
- Enhance participants’ skills.
- Support mental well-being.
- Expand social networks.
- Provide a hands-on micro-volunteering experience through a meaningful activity.
Participants took part in a micro volunteering activity at The Dudson Centre, where they wrapped presents for Santa to distribute at a Christmas themed celebration. The concept of micro volunteering—short term, low commitment volunteer opportunities—is designed to engage people who might not typically volunteer by offering an accessible and confidence-building experience.
In addition to wrapping gifts, attendees participated in a Christmas ornament making session. An array of materials were provided, allowing participants to unleash their creativity and craft ornaments for The Dudson Centre’s reception and café Christmas tree.
The result? Beautiful, handcrafted decorations that brightened the holiday season and fostered a sense of pride and accomplishment among the participants.
The event received overwhelmingly positive feedback:
- “I have never wrapped a present before, so have learnt something new, which is good!”
- “I’ve really enjoyed making the decorations for the tree.”
Every participant expressed a desire for more events like this in the future, underscoring the value of such initiatives in building confidence, enhancing skills, and fostering a sense of community.
This successful collaboration with Changes Health & Wellbeing highlights the power of micro-volunteering to support individuals on their journey toward volunteering and achieving personal growth. Here’s to a continued partnership and a shared commitment to empowering individuals through creative, inclusive opportunities.
