Monday, February 12 2024 marks the first day of Student Volunteering Week 2024, a nationally recognised week led by the Student Volunteering Network. During this time, universities and schools across the country organise opportunities or events to encourage their students to volunteer and help their local communities.
Student Volunteering Week (SVW) celebrates student volunteering in the following ways:
- Improves student wellbeing
- Develops students’ employability
- Contributes positively to the wider and local community life
Here at the LSE Volunteer Centre, we have a tremendous group of students who are dedicated to volunteering and sharing their passion with the community, the Student Volunteering Ambassadors. For SVW, a few ambassadors create a committee to develop the themes explored and events that take place during the week. Today you can read more from one of the Ambassadors from the committee, Madeline, about volunteering and planning for SVW:
Why is SVW important? What should the community know about LSE student volunteers, or students who volunteer in general?
Student Volunteering Week is an exciting opportunity for LSE students to get involved in volunteering and learn more about how they can volunteer during their studies. It’s a great chance to see the diversity of volunteering opportunities and learn from other student volunteers.
What themes/events/topics have you chosen to explore for SVW and why?
The events I have planned for SVW revolve around the sector of heritage volunteering. This is the sector I have the most experience in, and one that has is facing some really important challenges. The events are looking at how to expand diversity in heritage volunteering, and how volunteers can be at the centre of decolonisation efforts.
What has been your favourite volunteering you’ve done? Why was it impactful?
My favourite volunteering has been interacting with the public as an Engage Volunteer at the Horniman Museum. It was a great opportunity to involve visitors in the Museum’s collections to create a more accessible experience.
What advice would you give to LSE students who want to volunteer?
Keep an eye out on CareerHub for one off volunteering opportunities! They’re a great way to try out volunteering and see what works for you.
You can book your spot for one of our Student Volunteering Week events on our website!
