Happy Volunteers Week! After joining Warwick Arts Centre last year, I was committed to developing a programme which offered an opportunity for individuals to volunteer.
Having been a volunteer myself, I knew the benefits individuals receive from volunteering and how rewarding it is to support the arts, especially since it was a sector which was hit so hard, like many others, by the pandemic.
Our volunteers help to enrich the visitor experience, whether it be welcoming and guiding visitors, checking tickets, assisting in the foyer, prepping stock for sale, or just a friendly face, they really do leave a lasting impression.
We have also recently expanded our volunteering programme, which now includes volunteering in our Mead Gallery.
Known as one of the most distinctive gallery spaces in the UK, the Mead Gallery is home to a stunning collection of visual art and sculpture, and a host to both exciting and thought-provoking temporary exhibitions.
As a thank you, volunteers have access to exclusive opportunities to see shows and films, engage with artists, and are invited to our social meet ups!
For example, as part of our ‘Christmas End of Year Celebration’ last year, we had food, refreshments, quizzes, music, and a whole lot of laughs and fun.
Many of our volunteers decide to lend their time to us for different reasons, some thrive through the social and wellbeing benefits, some through enhancing and developing their skills, and some like to ‘give back’ and support the arts and local communities.
Whatever the main motivation is, the key part is that we come together as a team, which I am truly proud to say we do, very well.
We now have a community of over 100 volunteers, who regularly give their time to support on our exhibitions and events. We are extremely grateful to all our volunteers for their support, time and commitment they lend to us.
Lesley:
I love this role! I'm so grateful. I've always enjoyed cinema and live performances, and volunteering at the Arts Centre provides me with a fantastic opportunity to see so many superb films and shows while doing what I love which is meeting and greeting people! There's a wonderful atmosphere at this venue and all the staff members are so helpful and friendly.
Dipsy:
Being a student studying at Warwick and living on campus, it is very accessible to volunteer at Warwick Arts Centre. I first discovered Warwick Arts Centre through having some of my lectures in the Woods Scawen Room. I was blown away at what is on offer and I feel like it is part of my life. I am always very delighted and happy to volunteer here.
Nigel:
I was impressed by the warm welcome and effort made to ensure potential volunteers understood the role. I found out about volunteering through a friend and the process of signing up to shifts is quick and simple, which is beneficial to me. Briefings, including familiarisation with the venues was clear and effective. Volunteers were extremely friendly and mutually supportive.
Our Volunteer programme is constantly evolving to meet the needs of our visitors. We really couldn’t do it without our current volunteers and whole stewarding team, and we’d love to invite you along to be part of that journey too!
So now you may be wondering, how do I get involved? Check out our volunteering page to find out more information and how to register your interest.
Hope to hear from you soon!
Gemma
