I’m a final year student at UCLan studying a BA in Asia Pacific Studies. Last semester I attended a volunteering fair at the university. Here I met Emmaus Preston volunteer coordinator Lisa and companion Lee, talking about Emmaus at one of the stalls. I thought I’d have a walk around at first then speak to Lisa and Lee, and I was really impressed. I wanted to know more and get involved with Emmaus.
I wanted to start volunteering again because I had recently stopped teaching Korean students English over Zoom. I thought it was time to try something new and found Emmaus almost by accident; a happy accident!
UCLan Volunteers Fair
When I heard about Emmaus at the volunteers’ fair, Lisa and Lee told me how Emmaus helps. One of the biggest things with a lot of charities, is that you don’t see how you’re actually helping people. When you’re volunteering with Emmaus, you’re actually working alongside people supported here, and seeing how your role is changing people’s lives. That is something I wanted to do and get involved with. I’m getting to know the people I’m helping.
I signed up on the website and said I was happy to do any of the volunteer roles listed there. It came up that people were needed to help out at the fashion store. Looking at all the clothing that gets donated here, it makes sense!
What it’s like volunteering
I now come into Emmaus Preston Fashion, Vintage and Retro on Fishergate every Thursday around 11:30 and stay until close. I do a bit upstairs in the sorting room and then a bit downstairs in the shop too. I’m designated on steaming clothes at the moment, working with Caroline and John. Caroline knows a lot about pricing and John knows which items will do best on sale. When I’m downstairs in the shop, I tidy the stock, dress the mannequins and change the displays.
Shopping at Emmaus isn’t like going into a normal clothing shop. When people come in and buy something from someone here, you are also benefitting the people you meet working in store. It’s not something generic you’ll buy. It’s not something that’s just in season or even a current trend, you’ll just find something you like. Shopping at an Emmaus charity shop feels more personal.
If you’re thinking of volunteering, definitely give it a go. I have done other volunteering before, and it’s always been different. Here it feels more rewarding. You’ll find yourself in a special community, where you’ll feel you are valued. We always have a good time. Volunteers will fit in easily here.
Find out more about our exciting volunteer roles and opportunities, including how to apply, by visiting our Volunteer page here.