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Following a record number of calls for help in 2021 the Society of St Vincent de Paul (SVP) has launched a national campaign seeking volunteers. The Northern region is also reaching out to people locally to encourage people to come forward and join SVP.
During 2021 a total of just over 191,000 calls for help were made to the Society throughout Ireland. This is 12% up on the number of calls in 2020 and the highest on record for the Society.
The national campaign for volunteers will primarily focus on over 900 Visiting Conferences (Branches) and volunteers are also being sought to help in Vincent’s shops.
The recruitment campaign theme is ‘You know who you are - But we don’t’ To apply to become an SVP volunteer. Visit: SVP.IE/VOLUNTEER or call 028 9124 1943.
In launching the campaign SVP National President Rose McGowan said; “The characteristics required of our volunteers include; kindness, compassion, discretion, respect and being non-judgemental.
“Volunteers are our greatest strength, they know the issues in their communities and can address immediate needs as well as helping families and individuals, young and old, move towards self-sufficiency and equal opportunity through friendship and support. Offering a little help at the right time can give people hope for the future. Volunteers sharing their time and skills can change lives forever.
She added: “Volunteering with SVP involves working with and supporting the largest and oldest voluntary charitable organisation in Ireland. Training will be provided and the time commitment, while variable, is usually 3-5 hours weekly.”
Mary Waide, Regional President for the Northern region of SVP said: “I have been a volunteer with St Vincent de Paul for 20 years and I would recommend it to anyone. I can honestly say it is such a rewarding and fulfilling way to spend your spare time. By becoming a volunteer with SVP you will be helping bring joy and hope to the most vulnerable people in our communities.”
Other than visitation some other volunteer positions required by SVP are in:
Technical support for Conferences
Providing professional data management and finance support for Conferences, to ensure that Conferences capture and record important data that improves their ability to assist people, while also adhering to relevant legislation e.g. GDPR.
Shops
The role as a volunteer in the network of 33 shops across Northern Ireland, is to carry out or assist in general shop duties and to ensure customers are the priority at all times through the delivery of exceptional customer service.
