Kenny White: Volunteering is a practical way to help vulnerable people in society

David MacGregorVolunteer stories

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Kenny wanted to help the homeless community in the borough in which he lives in a practical way, rather than just being ideologically opposed to the hardships that vulnerable people in society face.

He has been volunteering with the 999 Club for almost 2 years and over that time has been primarily stationed on the busy reception area, where staff and volunteers deal with a myriad of issues, quickly getting to know many of our regulars.

“It feels like whether operating under restrictions or in full, fast-paced swing as it was when I started, the staff and volunteers have consistently been providing those in need with that which is not readily available to them. While the means of assisting the Club’s clients felt more immediate and effective when the Day Centre was allowed to open, it is difficult to articulate the importance of the 999 Club and similar such institutions both now and in the efforts to rebuild any kind of functional community once restrictions begin to lift. If I was to paraphrase all the client’s private praises of this place, and the people who work here that have been shared with me over the years, I’d be here all day.”