Volunteers week 2008 - 1 to 7 June

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02/06/08 Volunteers' Week (1-7 June) is the UK's annual celebration of the work volunteers do. In support of this One Parent Families|Gingerbread want to recognise our volunteers and the work that they do throughout the year.

The hard work of our volunteers is greatly appreciated by all the staff at One Parent Families|Gingerbread and this year we welcomed our first ever international intern, Kanako Honda from Japan. Previously Kanako, 28, had worked in banking and come to the UK in September 2007 to improve her English-speaking skills. She joined us here in March 2008 and has become an invaluable part of our team.

How did you find out about volunteering at One Parent Families|Gingerbread?

My Careers Counsellor at my language school in London knew about One Parent Families|Gingerbread. In Japan I was studying family relationships and how their economic problems have an effect on the children in the family and she suggested that I apply to volunteer here to continue improving my English and to get work experience within a charity.

What did you do before you became a volunteer?

Before I came to the UK I was a banker and a financial planner in Japan. I came to the UK to improve my English and after a few months language school I had the confidence to volunteer.

What has been the most enjoyable thing that you have done at One Parent Families|Gingerbread?

I have spent time with different teams at One Parent Families|Gingerbread but especially with the Fundraising and Communications teams. Within the fundraising team I wrote letters asking individuals and companies for donations.. I shall never forget the first donation I received of £5 it may have only been a small amount but it felt really great! Then I saw the amount of donations which followed together with extra gift aid - I think I raised a few thousand pounds!

What skills have you gained?

Working at One Parent Families|Gingerbread is very rewarding. I tested my abilities in a foreign country, and I have improved my language skills by working on reception and writing business letters and have also learnt how to fundraise. After volunteering here I am planning to go to business school; all the things I have learnt here will really help me there. Furthermore I have a general view of everyday life in a charity organisation.

Why should others volunteer?

I am very proud to have worked at One Parent Families|Gingerbread. When I started I didn't have any experience in the charity sector but people here have given me many opportunities and taught me lots of things.

If you would like to volunteer for One Parent Families|Gingerbread, please email info@oneparentfamilies.org.uk and we'll get in touch.

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