When I started volunteering my mates didn't think much of it because you don't get paid, but I knew it would lead to better things. I now have volunteering and coaching qualifications, this has led to part-time work as a football coach at Leyton. I want to take the coaching as far as possible for a career.
You get a lot out of volunteering. The young people are all really different and I have also done some peer mentoring. It makes me more confident and it helps build theirs too. A lot of them are from the same background as me.
I have volunteered at some really big events, like the London Marathon. I don't mind giving up my time, I'm only just 17 and not really money-orientated at the moment, as I'm still living at home with my mum.
- Do you know a child or young person with a story to tell? Call Lauren Higgs on 020 8267 4918, email lauren.higgs@haymarket.com.
