Volunteers Week 2022:
Meet Carl Hawkes
27 May 2022
The 1st-7th June is Volunteers Week, which is a time to say thanks for the contribution millions of people make across the UK through volunteering.
We’d like to highlight the fantastic work of our volunteers, who over the past year have contributed over 1,454 hours over April 2021- March 2022 towards subcommittees, grants panels, events and much more.
We caught up with Carl Hawkes, Head of Network Support at FareShare UK and newly appointed Trustee of Leeds Community Foundation.
Tell us more about your involvement with Leeds Community Foundation?
As a Trustee, I’m responsible for overseeing everything the charity does from setting its strategy to being responsible for finances. Being a Trustee is rewarding, especially for an organisation like Leeds Community Foundation. Being a Trustee has also been a great way for me to develop my skills and experience.
What drives your support?
I’m passionate about making a positive difference through my work and volunteering. I work for a large National Charity managing the team that centrally distributes 4 meals every second to thousands of charities and community groups across the UK. Seeing the amazing work those community organisations do has made me passionate about providing further support to them and developing community resilience.
What community issues are important to you?
I’m currently very concerned with the cost of living crisis. I’ve seen first-hand the struggle many families across the UK are facing right now. Many are having to choose between heating and eating. Supporting community groups, through my work and volunteering, to help people through the crisis is the main issue I’m concerned with right now.
Have you got any advice for individuals who are looking to get into volunteering?
Think about what interests you or excites you. What are you really passionate about? Spend time researching roles online or perhaps even through your local volunteer centre. Once you find a role and organisation that’s right for you have a few trial sessions before committing. The best volunteer roles I’ve had are those where I’ve got as much value out volunteering as the organisation I’m supporting.