When people think about cancer, it is usually only negative experiences that come to mind. To be able to bring people together and bring such happiness during this time usually filled with worries and concerns is what makes Teens Unite so special, and is why I really wanted to get involved.
The first time I heard about Teens Unite was through a newspaper article I read when I was halfway through my AS exams in June. It’s strange to think that the experiences I’ve had since have all come from trying to put off revision! I called the same day and within a week of finishing my exams, I was helping at my first event.
Since signing up as a volunteer, I’ve supported some amazing fundraising events, including the Junior warrior race, and the ‘It’s a knockout’ day, but the most amazing experience I’ve had is supporting the activity day at Herts Young Mariners Base, as part of the activity stay in August. I was apprehensive at first as I was younger than every person on the stay and I was wondering what I would actually be able to do to help them. However, I soon realised that by treating them no differently to how I would anyone else, giving them encouragement, and cracking a few terrible jokes, I was helping the teens to enjoy the day.
Seeing the friendships they’ve formed (including the “fastest bromance ever”) and their attitude to their situation was fantastic and it reminds you why you’re involved and really motivates you to want to do more. It’s hard to imagine the young people having the same attitude without the support and the network provided by Teens Unite.
By signing up to volunteer for Teens Unite, I became part of a diverse new community, and this means I’ve been able to work with amazing people that I would never have been able to work with. We’re all working towards the same thing and that brings people together.
No one volunteers for their own benefit but it is hugely rewarding. Volunteering develops you as a person in a number of ways, whether that’s improving social skills and communication whilst fundraising, or learning from the unbelievable attitudes of the young people. You’ll make brilliant memories, meet amazing people, and you’ll never regret signing up.
Volunteering with Teens Unite is beneficial for both us and for you.
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