18/06/2020
Volunteers are integral to strengthening our community. Babu Bhattacherjee, Poplar HARCA's Director of Communities & Neighbourhoods, shares why Poplar HARCA values volunteers so highly.
I want Poplar HARCA to be known as one of the best volunteer organisations. We want to capture ordinary people and have volunteers to deliver at a greater scale!
Poplar HARCA recognises that volunteers bring experience, knowledge, skills and energy which enriches and adds quality to the services we deliver. With issues such as income, poverty, employment and cohesion there is a strategy for housing associations helping communities to thrive and find a balance.
Volunteers are an integral part of many organisations and they offer invaluable support. People volunteer for a variety of reasons and we aim to provide a place for everyone, at a level suitable for them, to meet their requirements and aspirations. Whether it’s for an hour or two a week or a longer term commitment, with the right support and encouragement these can become life-changing, positive experiences for many which often lead on to even greater things.
Social capital
Volunteers have the ability to do more and have supported our community centres through various roles such as community events with lots of family entertainment. Volunteers bring amazing energy and help make our events a great success!
Activities are more successful
We offer weekly ESOL classes and provide a free crèche for families who otherwise may not have the opportunity to learn. As a crèche volunteer, they support children aged under 5 to discover, learn and have fun. Volunteers help provide assistance and support our services.
Sharing feedback
Over time our communities have changed with volunteers sharing knowledge and information, helping us shape our services. People have a lot to offer and through volunteering we can listen to valuable feedback, telling us what is right and wrong.
There is an impression that people tell us what to do but don’t get involved. We are developing our volunteer relationships to make a difference and become more successful. Volunteers get involved, they are motivated and help to fix issues. They are a part of the solution.