Listen to Nathan’s story here.
Navigating life with a disability, Nathan discovered a newfound sense of purpose by venturing into the realm of volunteering. Sharing his transformative experience, Nathan recounted, “I was diagnosed with anxiety – I normally used to keep to myself and would actually never talk to strange people. I talked to a psychologist and decided to try something different. When I first started volunteering, it was awkward. It took me a good few weeks to start talking to other people. I hardly said a word, but now I just talk all the time. By getting used to people on a daily basis, I started becoming comfortable.”
At Mersey Community Care, Nathan’s volunteer role revolves around home maintenance. Tasks range from mowing lawns and clearing gardens to disposing of rubbish for clients. Nathan’s journey commenced with a proficiency test, a valuable process that enabled the organisation to understand his unique needs.
As time unfolded, Nathan’s engagement expanded, and he secured a paid car cleaning position. Reflecting on this experience, he shared, “I clean the vehicles, providing drivers and clients with a clean vehicle when they’re going from place to place.” This experience has equipped him with additional skills and sharpened his problem-solving abilities when asked to pick up supplies or get quotes. “I’ve undertaken tasks I never thought I’d do.”
Nathan derives deep satisfaction from dedicating his time to helping those in need. “It feels good knowing that someone needs my help. I’ve never had anyone value the hard work I do.”
Offering valuable insights for volunteering organisations, Nathan emphasised the significance of effective communication tailored to diverse learning styles. Volunteers absorb information differently; for instance, Nathan is a visual learner. Demonstrating tasks, like vehicle cleaning, was particularly beneficial for him. “Patience is probably another thing organisations need to have. When I started, I didn’t bother asking questions. By seeing how patient they were here, I started asking questions again.”
He advised organisations against rushing volunteers and emphasised the need for simple, relevant information. He says it’s important to skip the irrelevant details and focus on what volunteers need to know. During his induction, skipping unnecessary information streamlined the process, aligning with his specific interest in home maintenance.
Over time, Nathan found himself gradually opening up about his disability. Cleaning the vehicles, and receiving compliments on their cleanliness inspired him. Organising a meeting with the volunteer coordinator allowed him to delve deeper into their operations. The conversation naturally unveiled details about his disability, which he says felt liberating.
Believing in the power of representation, Nathan says he believes it’s essential for people with disabilities to witness the achievements of volunteers like him. “If they can do it, I can do it.”
Reflecting on his time with Mersey Community Care, Nathan expressed, “Ever since I’ve been here, I’ve been welcomed. The volunteers are truly the heart and soul of this place.”
Nathan’s journey stands as a testament to the transformative impact of volunteering, showcasing the resilience and capabilities of individuals with disabilities. His story serves as an inspiration for others, encouraging them to explore the boundless possibilities within the world of volunteering.
