Three Rivers Centre for Voluntary Service held an informative seminar in South Oxhey Library today (From Watford Observer)

Three Rivers Centre for Voluntary Service held an informative seminar in South Oxhey Library today

3:17pm Tuesday 9th March 2010 in

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Would-be volunteers attended a free seminar organised by a Three Rivers charity service in South Oxhey today.

Staff from Three Rivers Centre for Voluntary Service (CVS) held the informative session in the library, aiming to help volunteers find a suitable organisation, and to answer any queries they might have.

Morgan O'Grady, CVS project worker, said: “There are literally hundreds of positions in this district, it's a matter of matching the volunteer to the ideal one.”

The sessions have been held weekly for people wanting to know more about volunteering in Watford, but this was the first meeting in Three Rivers.

Mary Murphy, a retired care worker from South Oxhey, said: “I've got spare time and wanted to do something helpful.

“I'd like to go and visit someone who may not have anybody or help out in catering in a hospital canteen. It really helps to be pointed in the right direction.”

Audience members listened to a presentation, outlining what they could expect and what would be expected of them as a volunteer, and were showed how to use www.do-it.org.uk, a national volunteering database on the internet.

Kathe Clark, Three River's CVS centre manager, said: “There has been a huge 73 per cent increase in volunteering in Hertfordshire, but we wanted to reach out into the wider community.

“We want to help people understand the benefits of volunteering, such as gaining new skills, and meeting new friends. It's fulfilling, rewarding and makes you feel good about yourself.”

Jane Gregory, who left a paid job as a the volunteer workshop coordinator for CVS in Watford to return to the voluntary sector, lead the session.

She said: “Before my paid job I volunteered at the CVS and the Citizens Advice Bureau. I just like helping people, if you're lucky enough to be able to give your time it's a very rewarding experience.”

The next session will be held on March 30 between 1 – 3pm, at the South Oxhey Library. Is is free, but requires booking.

Telephone 01923 711174, email project.trcvs@speedinternet.co.uk, or see the related link for more information.