Volunteering with LOOK: The Impact Its Had On My Life

Back in 2016, when LOOK’s mentoring programme was just getting started, I was part of the very first cohort of mentees. I still remember meeting up with everyone in Reading for a day of fun before our mentoring partnerships officially began. I feel so lucky to have been there at the start of something so special — something that continues to grow and flourish every day.

Staying Connected

Even after my mentoring partnership ended in 2021, LOOK has remained a big part of my life. During the COVID-19 lockdowns, when isolation became a reality for so many of us, I found real comfort and joy through LOOK’s Music Forum. Meeting every two weeks, the forum gave me a space to do something I love — sing and play piano — while also lifting my spirits and helping others feel connected during a really difficult time.

Throughout the years, I’ve jumped at the chance to join LOOK’s other activities, too. From the ‘That Farming Life’ workshop at Jamie’s Farm in Herefordshire to a festive pantomime trip while studying at the Royal National College for the Blind (RNC), every event has left me feeling energised and connected. The staff who run these activities are simply incredible — I cannot praise them highly enough for the work they do to make life fun and exciting for myself and other blind and partially sighted children, young people, and their families across the UK.

Building Confidence and Giving Back

Earlier this year, I had the amazing opportunity to host a self-advocacy workshop for LOOK’s ‘I Will Project‘. This event not only helped me pass part of my business qualification, but it also gave young people valuable skills and confidence. The positive feedback I received meant the world to me and confirmed just how important these opportunities are.

Later in the year, I completed three days of work experience at LOOK’s offices in Hereford — and I absolutely loved it. After finishing college, I knew I wanted to get even more involved. I reached out to LOOK’s Mentor Project Manager, Ruth, and now I regularly contribute to the Mentor Project Steering Group and help create social media and website content. Volunteering has become a lifeline for me, especially during a time when getting out and about isn’t as easy as I’d like. Every task I take on brings a real boost to my physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

What Volunteering Has Given Me

Volunteering with LOOK has been life-changing. It’s given me:

A sense of positivity during tough times
Strong new friendships with other VI young people
Deeper connections with existing friends
A feeling of fulfilment from giving back to a cause I believe in
Improved communication and teamwork skills
Valuable work experience for my future career
Learning how to create content for social media and websites
Planning and prioritisation skills
Support in passing my business qualification with a distinction grade

Image of Rona on a farm stroking a sheep with the farmer talking to her

Most of all, volunteering with LOOK lets me do something I truly love: helping others and making people happy. Every time I contribute, I feel proud to be part of a community that’s so committed to lifting each other up.

Why I’ll Always Be Part of LOOK

LOOK would not be what it is without its incredible volunteers. During National Volunteer Month, I want to celebrate every peer and university mentor who gives their time, energy, and heart to this amazing charity. Without them, the mentoring scheme simply wouldn’t exist.

If you’re thinking about volunteering for LOOK, my advice is simple: just do it. Dive in, get involved, and don’t give up. My connection with LOOK has been one of the most rewarding parts of my life, and I’m excited to continue giving back for as long as I can.

Thank you for reading my story. I hope it inspires you to see the amazing impact volunteering can have, not just on the people you help, but on your own life, too.