How did you get involved in volunteering with Community Impact Bucks?
I initially learned about Community Impact Bucks during my time as a CEO, where I utilised their services to enhance my leadership capabilities. This first hand experience with the organisation gave me insight into their valuable work supporting the charitable sector. Having benefited from their services myself, this led to my decision to volunteer with them 5 years ago, alongside my other voluntary commitments.
What is your role and what does it involve?
I see my role as coach and mentor to senior managers/CEOs of developing charities. My aim is to enable people to put in good practices around finance, strategy and future developments for themselves and the organisation so they have a firm base to build on.
What motivated you to start and continue volunteering?
Running a charity is a difficult and lonely job. I have valued the use of mentors/coaches throughout my working life, and I wanted to pass on my experiences and knowledge to help the organisation on its path to sustainability. It is also a way to keep my mind active.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering with us?
The flexibility of the role particularly appeals to me as I can choose which organisations to work with based on where I feel I can add the most value. This allows me to maintain a balance while ensuring I’m making meaningful contributions.
The variety of organisations and the challenges and opportunities each organisation presents keeps the work interesting and engaging.
What difference does your volunteering make to others?
The feedback I have received tells me people value having an outside neutral voice that enables them to review what they and the organisation is doing and make changes to become a better organisation.
Would you recommend volunteering and, if so, why?
I would recommend volunteering as long as you are clear about what your can offer and know when tasks are more than you are able and willing to manage.
It is a great way to continue to share your expertise and knowledge and also learn some new things along the way. It keeps your your mind young.
Additional information:
- If you are looking for a volunteering role, sign up on the Volunteer Bucks platform.
- If you are interested in mentoring support from Warren, go to Mentoring for Success on our Training and events webpage.
