Nicholas Carroll, Senior Programme Executive, Developing the Young Workforce Glasgow has been working with MCR Pathways for many years now as a volunteer mentor. Discover Nicholas’ volunteering journey with MCR Pathways.
What made you interested in becoming a volunteer with MCR Pathways?
I wanted to contribute to making a tangible difference to a young person from a similar background to me as I would have navigated similar challenges in my time at school which hopefully helps to build a connection and lets messaging hit home.
What impact has volunteering at MCR Pathways had on you?
In my job, I don’t really see the effect that some of pure work has on young people but by doing face to face mentoring, you actually notice the growth and learning as this takes place over three years. It has also taught me so much more about the issues, trends and vernacular that young people are exposed to at this moment in time.
What does volunteering mean to you?
In an ideal world, we shouldn’t have to volunteer but until such times as the system is functional and funded enough to offer as wide a range of support to as many young people that need it. I think it is vital that society stands up to offer what it can in terms of assistance.
What’s the best thing about volunteering at MCR Pathways?
Just engaging with young people on their level, I am not there to judge or make decisions for them, just to listen and share my own experiences when appropriate.
Why would you encourage your network to begin volunteering?
It is on us all to give back as much as we can to help young people’s lives just that little bit easier, this also benefits us all in the long run and no child should ever be left behind at any stage.
Click here to discover how you can make also make an impact and help shape the lives of young people.
