Volunteering with Four Pillars

Amber - Sense of Belonging

I've been volunteering at Four Pillars for about a year and a half now, having started volunteering in general back in 2017. Initially, I was introduced to Four Pillars by my employability support worker, and from the moment I walked in, I felt an overwhelming sense of comfort and community.Meeting Linda, our volunteer coordinator, and starting hub shifts were pivotal moments for me. Volunteering here has been a way to reconnect with the community and work towards improving my mental health. The flexibility and support we get as volunteers are incredible. If you're struggling, you can step back, but the environment also encourages you to contribute as much as you can.I've made numerous friends, both volunteers and service users, and I cherish the connections I've built. One of my favourite aspects of volunteering is getting to know people and helping them in any way I can, which has always been a passion of mine.

In the past six months, I've expanded my role to include working with the teen group every other Friday. Despite initial nerves,I've grown to love working with these teens, offering them a safe space to be themselves. Hosting Dungeons & Dragons as a Game Master has been particularly rewarding, attracting more teens to the group and enriching their experience. Living in Peterhead, the isolation I felt before discovering FourPillars in Aberdeen was profound. This place is a lifeline, providing a safe, welcoming space for the queer community to connect. The transformation I've seen in myself and others, like a quiet service user who became a vibrant volunteer, highlights the positive impact of volunteering. Joining Four Pillars might be the change someone needs, offering a sense of belonging and a way to give back. It’s more than just a boost to your CV; it’s a way to find a family and support within your community.

‍

Layla - A Supportive Community

Before becoming a Support and Development Worker at FourPillars, I was a volunteer here. Volunteering helped me regain confidence and develop skills after being out of work for six and a half years due to mental health challenges. I had originally been a service user at Four Pillars, and asI started to build up confidence, I realised I wanted to get back to work and give a little bit back. So, I began volunteering to be more supportive and helpful rather than just sitting about in the hub all day. It was about being there for others and also getting back into the habit of working after such along break."

As a volunteer, I supported people in the hub and joined outreach projects, offering a listening ear and a helping hand wherever needed. Whether it was cleaning or assisting with events like Pride, I found fulfilment in contributing to the community. Volunteering was not only about giving back but also about reestablishing a routine and preparing myself for employment again. When a job opportunity opened up at Four Pillars, I took the leap, and it's been an incredibly positive journey ever since. I'm now grateful to support other volunteers who, like me, are on a path to self-development and empowerment.

When I first came out, there wasn't anything like FourPillars. It was a confusing and isolating experience, which took a toll on my mental health. Now, being part of this organisation allows me to ensure that others have the support I wished I had. Seeing people's growth and transformation here is one of the most rewarding aspects of my job. While volunteering might seem daunting at first, Four Pillars is a welcoming place for everyone, and I encourage others to join us in making a difference. It's not just about volunteering; it's about becoming part of a supportive community where everyone's welcome and valued.

‍