“ [The Volunteer Fair was] eye-opening in terms of seeing how many opportunities there are… it was really useful.” Volunteer Fair attendee, November 2024
Meet and chat with organisations including Hackney Doorways, Round Chapel Old School Rooms and V&A East who advertise on our site about the opportunities they have available. Whether you have an hour a week or an hour a month, come and find out what volunteering roles are on offer for you in Hackney. Just turn up on the day!
If you’re new to the idea of volunteering, here are just five of the many benefits of getting involved.
Develop skills
Volunteering in Hackney can help you build a wide range of skills, from customer service to practical skills like woodwork. Trying out a new skill can help you spruce up your CV. New experiences and achievements gained through volunteering are a great way to wow recruiters and get ahead of the competition when applying for paid jobs, especially if you’ve been out of the job market
Enjoy a new experience
If you’d like to switch up your daily routine or get a new hobby, volunteering could be just what you need. Doing something different isn’t just for fun – it’s been proven to boost creativity and improve memory. Immersing yourself in a new experience is a great treat for your brain.
Meet people and make friends
“What I’ve also seen is volunteers making new friends with each other which is fantastic,” said Errol from Hackney food bank Storehouse. “We also have social events. Making great relationships and friendships also helps build the community.”
Boost your mental health
“Before I started volunteering, I felt like a broken person in need of fixing,” said local volunteer Dawn. “Now I feel like I have found a better way to go through life and I have a clearer view of what’s important to me.”
In a survey conducted by the National Association of Voluntary Organisations, 77% of people said volunteering boosted their mental well-being. Dawn is one of many local volunteers who have improved their mental health by giving their skills, time and energy to Hackney organisations.
Support positive causes in your community
Hackney is brimming with community groups and charities, and we’ll be bringing ten great organisations to our Volunteer Fair – and they’re all seeking volunteers just like you.
We’d love to meet you there, but if you’d like to search for roles right now, check out our top 10 volunteer roles for April. Follow us on social media to find out about the organisations and roles on offer at the Fair.