Challenge Yourself: Dee tells her volunteering story

Volunteer Dee Dolling has been helping out at Hemel Hempstead’s Volunteer Centre for five years now, here she reveals what she has got out of giving back.
Volunteer Dee from Hemel Hempstead's Volunteer Centre.Volunteer Dee from Hemel Hempstead's Volunteer Centre.
Volunteer Dee from Hemel Hempstead's Volunteer Centre.

When I was in full time employment I had an accident at work which resulted in a back injury. This meant I could no longer do my job and needed to change my career direction.

So, as I was unemployed the Job Centre put me on a work placement and I did an IT course known as the European Computer Driving License which I passed. I was keen to put this into practice and decided to give office work a try. I needed to get experience and was told that volunteering would help.

I went to the volunteer centre and they were very friendly and helpful. I looked at different options and I ended up volunteering at the centre.

My role started as covering reception and doing administrative tasks. In the past two years my skills have developed and I have started to take responsibility for new areas of work.

I now liaise with our member organisations regarding the opportunities that are coming to the end of us advertising for potential volunteers. This ensures that our records are accurate and up to date.

I also ensure that our volunteers have the correct information on their files and keep our windows fresh and interesting with up to date information and new posters.

Also, I did the mail out for the annual meeting, which is another example of how volunteering has taught me new skills in admin.

I now host regular sessions to advise potential volunteers on the best opportunity that would suit them and find that my own experience of volunteering really helps with this.

Since being at the volunteer centre I have become more confident and positive and have a greater understanding how to deliver great customer service.

We have a fantastic team of volunteers and staff and I really enjoying working there.

To find out more about volunteering call the Volunteer Centre at The Roundhouse, Marlowes, on 01442 247209 or visit www.volunteerdacorum.org