Five minutes with…Alvin
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This National Allotments Week, we’re sharing lots of news from our Lalley community allotment.
It’s a peaceful haven in the city, and it simply wouldn’t be so beautiful without the amazing volunteers who support the team there.
Here, Alvin, one of our allotment volunteers tells us more…
Hello Alvin. Please can you tell us what you do at Caritas?
I volunteer at the allotment, helping with gardening, maintenance and activities that bring people together.
How long have you volunteered with Caritas and why did you decide to get involved?
Almost five years. I enjoy gardening and wanted to contribute to my local community.
What’s the best thing about volunteering?
As a new immigrant, volunteering has helped me meet people, make friends and feel more connected to my new community.
What’s the best thing about your particular volunteering role?
Being outdoors (when the weather is cooperating), growing things and working together with other people.
Caritas is a charity. What’s it like volunteering with a charitable organisation?
It is rewarding to know that my time can make a positive difference to others.
What surprised you about volunteering here that you didn’t expect?
I didn’t expect volunteering to help me feel so quickly at home and connected in a new country.
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not volunteering?
Travelling, keeping an aquarium, and enjoying food and wine.
What are your favourite things to do in Greater Manchester or Lancashire?
Exploring different neighbourhoods, trying new food and discovering interesting places.
What three words best describe you?
Curious, friendly and community-minded.
How would you sum up the difference your volunteering makes in a sentence?
I help create a place where people can grow, share and feel connected.
We’re really grateful to Alvin and all of our amazing volunteers. We simply couldn’t continue supporting thousands of local people every year without them.
To find out more about volunteering opportunities and how you can get involved, click here to visit our volunteering website page: www.caritassalford.org.uk/volunteer