Volunteers making the difference

7th June 2017

Volunteers are at the heart of all charities, and are an essential part of ensuring support can be given to those in need.

It can be a mutually beneficial experience as volunteering brings benefits to both the person volunteering and the people and organisations that they help.

SNAP is extremely fortunate to have more than 100 dedicated and passionate individuals who regularly give their time and skills to ensure SNAP can continue to support families throughout Essex who have a child or young person with any special need or disability.

Here we catch up with two of our kind-hearted volunteers who have made it their mission to make a difference…

Amelia Burnett, Family Services Volunteer

How did you hear about SNAP?
Once my son started to attend school it was a given that I would volunteer. I remember how during the early days before my son’s diagnosis how good it felt just being able to talk without judgement, to find a resource and get reassurance to help both him and myself, and we had that from SNAP. To then be able to give that feeling back to other parents was something I really wanted to be involved with.

In what way do you volunteer for SNAP and what does that involve?
I volunteer at Therapeutic Thursdays, the pre school group at SNAP. This involves setting up the activities, playing with the children, helping with the songs and props at music time, and assisiting the family team advisers.

Which previous skills have you been able to bring to volunteering?
I have previous experience of working within a SEN school as well as having an autistic child of my own. I think talking to parents with a personal insight makes them feel like they are not alone. Having an autisitic child myself makes me empathetic to any child’s need and recognise that each child is an individual.

What is the most rewarding part of being a SNAP volunteer?
I love interacting with the children, and knowing that the little things you can offer go a long way, even when it’s just a cup of tea.

Would you recommend volunteering to others?
Without a shadow of a doubt!

Neill Boatman, Fundraising Volunteer

How did you hear about SNAP and what inspired you to volunteer?
I heard about the work that SNAP does through a networking group in Brentwood. I was motivated to visit The SNAP Centre in Warley where I was instantly gripped by the feel and atmosphere. I wanted to help in any way I was able to.

In what way do you volunteer for SNAP and what does it involve?
I give my time assisting at community fundraising events, and this involves helping to set up, and engaging with the general public with the guidance of the fundraising team. I also run a print business so I am able to offer support with fundraising products which help raise funds and awareness.

Which previous skills have you been able to bring to volunteering?
It is just in my nature to want to do more than just be a face. As a business owner I bring a critical friend approach, and having been a school governor for ten years I have an appreciation of some of the the issues families have to deal with.

What is the most rewarding part of being a SNAP volunteer?
A chance to give something back is very fulfilling. Engaging with the team at SNAP and their families has meant new friendships.

Would you recommend volunteering to others?
I couldn’t recommend volunteering strongly enough. It is the most rewarding thing you can do!