10/04/24

by Chris Housden

It is great to be able to volunteer and do something which is your hobby as well!

A friend of mine, already involved with L’Arche, and knowing I was a keen chess player, suggested I might like to become a volunteer as there was a member who loved playing chess. I was put in contact with a volunteer officer Nadia, who was very friendly and made me feel at ease with the process of becoming a volunteer. After DBS checks, references and online training I was ready!

I already knew John by sight as he attends the same Mass as me at St Marys. Once I knew he was keen on chess this gave me an opportunity to formally introduce myself. He was delighted when he realised we might be able to play chess together and he patiently waited for all the checks and training to be completed.

Our first game was very memorable as I made an unintentional illegal move which John immediately spotted! He very graciously allowed the game to continue, as technically he could have claimed the win. We have had a number of games since then which I have thoroughly enjoyed. It is great to be able to volunteer and do something which is your hobby as well!

When I arrive for a chess session, I am struck by how friendly everybody is. Assistants always take time to make me a coffee and will often make encouraging comments to John during a game which I don’t mind, given he let me off the illegal move! I thoroughly enjoy my time as a volunteer for L’Arche and would recommend this to anyone considering volunteering.

Fancy volunteering with us?