Volunteers' voices

Volunteering is incredibly rewarding. By getting involved, not only can you help Arthritis Care, you can help yourself and others all at the same time. By giving your time to do something useful, you will in return get the satisfaction of time and effort well spent.

But don’t just take our word for it – our volunteers tell their own stories below.

Doreen

I was first introduced to Arthritis Care when I attended a Challenging Your Condition course. I was so impressed that I asked if there was any way that I could become part of the organisation. Within months I was being trained to present the course.

That was the beginning of the journey of meeting and making new friends as well as contributing to improving the lives of other people.

I have already presented two Challenging Your Condition courses to about thirty participants. They participants have formed their own support groups, which meet regularly, and to which I am invited. The difference in their approach to life is amazing and they are so positive now, looking forward to the future.

From a personal point of view I have also gained so much. I am more confident and also able to manage my life better. Every day parts of the course remind and help me in many ways. My husband has also become a Volunteer which means we can enjoy Arthritis Care together.

My treasured memory is a card I received from a participant who wrote that we had 'given her her life back and she could now look forward to the future'.

Wallace

I volunteered to take photographs of meetings for historical and publicity purposes, and have thoroughly enjoyed my little job. I hope that the pictures that I have produced have been useful to the organisation. I am sure that other opportunities for voluntary work will arise, as I become more familiar with the workings of Arthritis Care and some almost forgotten skills might prove of use once again.

I have met many interesting and dedicated people and enjoy the feeling of being useful again in spite of everything that life throws at you. Everyone seems to enjoy overcoming their problems and sharing information and ideas to make life more enjoyable. I have been amazed to observe the changes that occur among people, and their pleasure with new friendships which help them to cope with their conditions.