Blog: Celebrating our brilliant volunteers

1st June 2023

A tribute, this Volunteers' Week 2023, to those who go above and beyond for STAMMA every day, by Vee, our Network & Campaigns Lead.

Volunteers are the backbone of our charity, dedicating so much of their time and expertise to support what they feel passionate about. As we approach Volunteers' Week (1-7 June), a time to appreciate the incredible work of our volunteers, we want to shine a spotlight on the remarkable people who form the heart of STAMMA. 

We owe a lot of our success to our volunteers' commitment and compassion. Particularly to our webchat and helpline volunteers, plus the extraordinary individuals who run our support communities online and offline. Peer support is one of the strongest ways to support each other. 

Webchat & helpline

Our webchat and helpline volunteers are beacons of support. They provide a listening ear if you want to talk about your stammer, practise a presentation or even rant about your employer, and a comforting voice when needed. Their dedication ensures that no one has to face the challenges of stammering alone. THANK YOU SO MUCH! 

Peer support

At the heart of STAMMA's mission are our communities that bring people who stammer together, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment. They're run by compassionate and dedicated volunteers who understand the unique experiences and needs of those who stammer. By organising regular meetings, they create safe spaces for people to share their stories and things that help, and build lasting friendships. These incredible humans play a pivotal role in breaking down barriers and championing acceptance of stammering in our society.

Rewarding

I know first-hand what it means to volunteer. Aside from my job at STAMMA, I am the Vice President of my Rotaract Club and regularly give my time to serve breakfast to homeless people in London's Soho. Volunteering is just so rewarding!

The benefits of becoming a STAMMA volunteer are countless and the rewards extend far beyond the act of helping others. By joining our volunteer team, you can:

• make a difference. Your contribution can positively impact the lives of individuals who stammer, their families and the wider stammering community.
• achieve personal growth. Volunteering offers a chance to enhance communication skills, empathy and problem-solving abilities, which can benefit you personally and professionally.
• connect with a supportive community. By becoming a STAMMA volunteer, you become part of a diverse family that shares common goals of promoting acceptance and supporting those who stammer.

What our volunteers say

"I started volunteering for STAMMA because I wanted to make a difference; I want people to have the support I didn't have. I'm also excited to be doing something I've never done before. Meeting new people, feeling a sense of pride, having a purpose — all of these factors pay dividends. Volunteering can help you put things in perspective, appreciate the little things more and to show gratitude towards your own life and the people within it."

"Volunteering with STAMMA has been absolutely life changing for me. Everyone is so friendly and welcoming, it always feels like a very safe space. Being able to use my stammer — something I have been ashamed about my whole life — in a positive way to help and support others is more than I ever imagined possible."

Join the Volunteer Team

Do you feel inspired? Do you wish to make a difference in the lives of people who stammer? Whether you're interested in becoming a support services volunteer, a community organiser, a Minecraft Club volunteer, or contributing your unique skills in other areas, get in touch. See our Volunteer page and take the first step towards becoming a valued member of our STAMMA family.