Have food banks created a community with a positive outlook for the future? In today’s world, where food insecurity continues to be a pressing issue, food banks stand as: potential symbols of hope, a last resort, or a form of action in likely times of uncertainty. Behind the scenes, we have a dedicated team of unsung heroes – the volunteers. Thinking of the definition below, ‘volunteers’ are also people, with their own back stories and future chapters, actively participating for the greater good, whatever their motivation. 

volunteer

/ˌvɒlənˈtɪə/

verb

• 1.
• freely offer to do something.
  “140 employees volunteered for redundancy”

c. 1600, “one who offers himself for military service,” from French voluntaire, “one who volunteers,” also as an adjective, “voluntary,” from Latin voluntarius “voluntary, of one’s free will.” Non-military sense is first recorded 1630s, and as an adjective from 1640s.

Effectively, we’re saying that these individuals dedicate their own free time and efforts to ensure that no one in their community goes hungry. Their role is not only vital, but also, a symbol of the power of collective action and human compassion. They choose to be present. They are not obligated to be. Yet from the below, we can see that ‘mentions’ of the word “volunteer” are on the decrease. Where does this leave organisations who depend on the generosity and nature of people like this?

Differ if you will, but volunteers allow organisations such as Acts Trust to simply function at all. Period. Without them, we are no more. From receiving inward deliveries and donations, and organising and distributing those into set volumes for those who need it most in our community, to offering a listening ear in themes of hardship, and making space for another human to feel safe. They are involved in every step of the process.

Given the huge credit they deserve, their skillset doesn’t lie in simple tasks, however. It is ingrained in their souls. They bring empathy, and warmth, and breed compassion amongst the people they’re surrounded by, be that, guest, or, fellow teammate. It’s not always easy, nor simple, yet they show up, consistently, through adversity as well as success. 

Endearing they may be, but the impact of their presence here is more than that. It extends far beyond the immediate distribution of food – a handing over of a parcel with a smile, if you will. By offering their time, experience, and skills, volunteers create a ripple effect of positive change within communities through connection, building dignity, trust, friendship, inspiring deeper conversation, as well as the potential for those less fortunate now, to consider doing the same when they are able.

Remarkably fulfilling, you see many sides to many people, and many situations, to many circumstances. It can bring a wave of emotions. One thing it most certainly is, however, is humbling. It reminds us to be grateful for what we do have in our own lives, rather than seek what we have not. It shows us that under difficult times, we can all learn something from each other and show up with a positive attitude to life. It shows solidarity and human spirit. It shows us that human kindness knows no bounds.

To find more about how you can volunteer click here https://www.actstrust.org.uk/get-involved/