National Volunteer Week is a time to honor and appreciate the invaluable contributions made by our Club's volunteers who selflessly dedicate their time, skills, and passion to make a positive impact on our community. In the spirit of this special occasion, we are thrilled to present our volunteer interview series, where we delve into the remarkable stories of just some of the inspiring individuals who have chosen to make a difference.
We have had the pleasure of interviewing a remarkable lineup of individuals, including the incredible Joe, Isabelle, Eloise, Arabella, Bailey (Joe's son), and now it's Ben's turn to enlighten us with his inspiring volunteer journey.
BEN SHAW
What motivated you to become a PMLSC Volunteer?
Starting as an Age Manager - to be involved with my daughters Nippers sessions - the natural progression was to qualify for a Bronze Medallion so that I could patrol with them once they’d become SRCs. Giving back to community then became the main motivation.
In your opinion, what makes volunteering such a valuable and rewarding experience, and how does it contribute to personal growth and development?
The value of volunteering for me isn’t valued as hours logged or qualifications gained - it’s about being part of a community committed to helping others with no expectation of financial reward. It’s about a sense of community, achievement and purpose - where I can share experience and skills with others at different stages of life - while protecting & helping the community.
Can you share a specific moment or experience during your volunteer work that stands out to you and reinforces your love for volunteering and or the club?
Watching junior members develop into young adults - incorporating their experiences and that of older mentors is a real and tangible outcome of being involved in volunteering. Taking the best parts of learned experience and sharing them to make others better…
What keeps you motivated to continue volunteering for PMLSC?
Connection with club and community. Being available to actively contribute and learn while being part of something bigger which is the lifesaving movement.
How has volunteering impacted your life, and what benefits have you experienced from it?
It’s enabled me to take learning and leadership in a business sense to a new level by incorporating the “giving to community” lessons back into my professional career. It’s enabled me to also gain a healthy separation from the “day to day” work pressure and help change my mindset and focus. This has benefitted both my professional and personal life greatly.