Inspiring Confidence and Community: Matt's Volunteer Journey with In The Mix Project

Having worked with Scouts when his daughter was in Cubs, Matt wanted to continue working with young people, helping them learn vital skills and steer them down the right paths in life. The more relaxed, fun environment suited him, as he feels it is important that young people learn through having fun.

In his role, Matt helps out with the weekly youth club and has been involved in detached work. This fits around his full-time job and other commitments, so while he doesn’t do as much as he would like, his contributions make a clear impact.

Reflecting on his personal growth, he says that volunteering has taught him that he has something to offer to young people in his local community — and that by just being himself and being approachable, he can make a difference in children and young people's lives.

One of the most memorable moments for him has been seeing children who are hesitant to try something new, and encouraging them until they succeed. Witnessing their pride in themselves afterwards feels like a real positive impact. “Every time a child confides in me,” he adds, “it also makes me feel like I’m making a difference.”

When asked what makes the youth group unique, he explains that “it covers a lot of different areas, all centred around the wellbeing of children in the community. So much work is put into this. It’s also such a friendly, welcoming environment.”

He believes that youth work is essential in Somerset today because “children are exposed to so much more these days, much of which could negatively affect them without youth organisations being there to support them.” It’s important, he says, that “we play our part in ensuring children turn into decent, law-abiding, and happy adults who contribute positively to society.”

His top three takeaways from volunteering with In The Mix Project are:

• Being welcomed into the team

• Meeting local young people and realising that most are polite and want to do the right things

• Understanding that youth work is so important — and should be better funded by the government, as we have to invest in the adults of the future

Summing up his experience, he says:

“ITMP has given me an opportunity to pass on my life skills to the younger generation, whilst benefiting myself from a great sense of pride and achievement.”

Finally, when asked what ITMP offered that no one else did, he shares:

“ITMP offers me a friendly, relaxed, and positive environment in which to help young people, and they have been generous in offering me the opportunities to learn about youth work and develop my own life skills.”