Brian has been volunteering in ReStore Ballymena for almost two years, giving over 1,000 hours of his time to support our work. Read his story below.
I am retired and I had some free time in my week. I wanted to fill this time by helping others. I have over 30 years experience in health and social care, and I wanted to use my experience in working with young people, and people with disabilities. I was made aware when I first applied to volunteer that this was an area in which I could contribute to the goals and values of ReStore.
I enjoy meeting new people and interacting with customers. It's a good place and people are friendly. But volunteering also gives me a purpose, I've really enjoyed being able to use my experience to help volunteers who need extra support and help them learn new skills.
As I mentioned, I enjoy working alongside those volunteers here on supported placements. I also take health and safety seriously - so I also like to make sure the aisles are clear and that everyone is able to get around the store. Furniture gets moved around often, so it's always good to be keeping an eye out!
The amount of young people that are supported through ReStore, you wouldn't necessarily know the different types of people who come to volunteer here. Everyone is from a different background, has different skills, and has a different reason for coming.
Having worked abroad for many years, I am inspired that Habitat for Humanity work both abroad, in countries like Malawi, but also in our local community through the House to Home programme.
