By Emma Thomas-Hancock, Chief Operating Officer and Volunteering Matters
As I celebrate 25 years with Volunteering Matters, it feels surreal to look back on a journey that began on 3 January 2000. At that time, I was just five years out of university, unsure of my career path but certain about two things:
- I wanted to work with people.
- I believed – and still believe – in the transformative power of volunteering.
Having been a volunteer myself since I was young, I knew how life-changing it could be. So, when a job at CSV (which would later become Volunteering Matters) came along, it felt like a dream come true. It was a chance to work directly with people in an environment rooted in the values I hold dear. Though it was just a three-month temporary contract, I embraced it wholeheartedly, never imagining it would turn into a 25-year career.
The journey through change
Over the past 25 years, much has changed. Our organisation has evolved, including a name change from CSV to Volunteering Matters in 2015. Colleagues and volunteers have come and gone, and I’ve had the privilege of holding various roles – each offering unique opportunities to learn and grow.
Yet, through it all, three constants have stood the test of time:
- The power of volunteering: It never ceases to amaze me how volunteering transforms lives.
- A belief in social justice: Volunteering Matters has always driven change for communities, powered by the people within them.
- People at the heart: It’s the individual – volunteers, staff and partners – who make everything we do possible.
What is so special about Volunteering Matters
When I reflect on why I’ve stayed so long, the answer is simple: people. Volunteering Matters is an extraordinary place filled with inspiring individuals who create meaningful change every day.
Our volunteers engaged across generations – enabling young people, enriching the lives of older adults, or leading community initiatives. Whether supporting frontline projects or driving systemic improvements, there’s always meaningful work to be done.
As an employer, Volunteering Matters truly values its people. It’s a flexible, family-friendly organisation filled with caring and hardworking colleagues. My daughters weren’t even born when I started, and now they’re turning 21! Balancing a fulfilling career with family life has been possible thanks to the supportive culture here.
Looking ahead
As I think about the future of Volunteering Matters, there are four key areas where I feel we need to focus:
- Volunteers: We need more people to join us whether leading projects or driving community change.
- Staff: Investing in and developing our team is crucial. Collaboration and innovation will propel us forward.
- Partners: Collaborating with like-minded organisations amplifies our reach and impact.
- Funding: Like any charity, we rely on funding to sustain and expand our work. New investments will help us continue responding to community needs.
A personal thank you
As I mark this milestone, I want to express my gratitude:
- To my colleagues past and present, for trusting me and supporting me throughout this journey.
- To the inspiring volunteers whose dedication and kindness have been the heartbeat of our work.
- To everyone who has been part of Volunteering Matters, whether as a volunteer, staff member, funder, partner, or supporter.
I’m proud to serve as Chief Operating Officer while staying connected to our grassroots work as a volunteer bingo caller! It’s a reminder of why our mission matters and the difference we can make together.
Final thoughts
Few jobs allow you to witness the power of human kindness every day. Volunteering doesn’t just transform the lives of those helped – it changes those who give their time and energy too. I’m deeply grateful for these 25 years and excited for what the future holds.
If you’ve ever considered getting involved—whether as a volunteer, staff member, partner, or funder—I encourage you to take the leap. You won’t regret it. I certainly never have.
Here’s to the next chapter in this incredible journey.
