Ever since The RSPB was formed by volunteers to counter the trade in plumes for women's hats, Volunteering has been an integral part of all we do for nature. From all walks of life and bringing a vast variety of skills, love and enthusiasm, Volunteers help us Give Nature a Home. Here are 4 reasons why volunteering for the RSPB helps Give Nature a Home.
Reason 1: Sharing your Passion
I’ve been lucky enough to work with volunteers who have shown immense passion for what they do for The RSPB. Volunteers who have been with us for over 40 years, volunteers who manage to tot up thousands of hours volunteering in one year! By the time someone phones me to enquire about volunteering, they are already fully committed, they took time to think about who they wanted to give their free time to – free time is a precious commodity these days and we are privileged that so many want to spend their time helping our cause.
Reason 2: You bring knowledge, and not just about birds and wildlife.
Typically, people will think about volunteering for the RSPB as conservation, outside and hands on. That is true – it is a major part of the fantastic things that volunteers do for us. But you don’t have to know anything about birds to be able to help us. Volunteers now bring a massive contribution in the way of knowledge and skills. People skills, management skills, logistics, media, education, IT, analysis, catering and of course conservation – the number of volunteers bringing their expertise to help mentor/guide and influence is growing rapidly.
Reason 3: Being the next generation
Work experience, Youth volunteering, student placements and Volunteer Internships all help us shape the next generation of conservation and nature enthusiasts. How can we not take up the mantle for motivating and training those individuals who will hopefully take what they learn with the RSPB out into the world and help make a world richer in Nature and Wildlife.
Reason 4: Nearly 18,000 volunteers can’t be wrong!
With nearly 18,000 volunteers helping the RSPB on a regular basis it is without a doubt that we couldn't be the organisation we are without our volunteers. Volunteers help us on every level of our organisation, at every location and in so many ways, we really wouldn't be able to continue the important work we do for conservation without you.
Image Credit: Andy Hay (rspb-images.com)
Want to Volunteer? Ask me!