Whitehead woman who has been volunteering for over 40 years describes how it enriched her life

Jane Robb first started volunteering with the then Citizens’ Advice Bureau in her native Carrickfergus in the 1980s.

The experience sparked a lifelong interest in supporting organisations and causes that she felt passionate about, the impact of which she says has been life changing.

“I honestly can’t describe what a big part of my life volunteering is,” said Jane. “People think it’s a completely selfless thing to do but for me, I have gained so much!

“For instance, my early volunteering roles gave me a great chance to get some training, meet new people and learn new skills. It actually helped me get a job because the experience was so relevant and my career took off from there.

“After a period of illness, volunteering was what helped me get back on my feet. It gave me structure to life and the confidence I needed to apply for work again.

“Then, when I moved to Whitehead five years ago, volunteering helped me meet new people in the area, helping me socialise and get behind things that enhance life in the town.”

Jane has been involved with community events in Whitehead like the Victorian Street Fair, the Easter Road Race and the Summer Festival. She has helped champion support for charity Women’s Aid through fundraising events in the town.

Clearly having passed her love of community to her daughter Lee, Jane has been involved with several of Lee’s ventures, including The Repair Café in Belfast and its new branch in Whitehead; The Talking Shop in Carrickfergus, and Carrick Greengrocers, where Jane regularly takes shifts.

Jane has also spent a lot of time within the cultural and arts sector in recent years, having been a regular volunteer for organisations like The MAC in Belfast, the Ulster

Museum, University of Atypical, Thrive, Arts Ekta and the Belfast International Arts Festival.

Wenda Gray of Volunteer Now said: “Jane is an incredible example of how volunteering changes lives. Not only has she given so much for her community and local causes, she has also enjoyed so many brilliant experiences thanks to being a volunteer.

“Volunteering has become a way of life for Jane. Whilst we know not everyone can give a lot of time, we believe that every hour counts. We really hope that people will take inspiration from Jane’s amazing story and visit our website to find out what opportunities might interest them. Hopefully it will start a habit that lasts a lifetime.”

And for anyone considering becoming a volunteer, Jane has the following advice: “Find opportunities that you’re interested in or have a passion about. Volunteer Now have a load of different opportunities you can explore. If you have an interest, you will learn even more through volunteering and, even if you can just give an hour every so often, it all helps.

“You’ll be learning, keeping your brain active, experiencing amazing things and if you’re interested in adding to your CV, volunteering will stand you in good stead. I’ve gained more than I could ever imagine from being a volunteer."