Posted on: Friday 10 January 2025
A women from Pontypool is on her way to achieving her dream career, thanks to volunteering.
Ellie Stevens, 20, was put in touch with Hope for the Community centre, at Sharon Church, in Pontypool, by Torfaen Voluntary Alliance as a way of learning practical skills to support her food hygiene course.
Since then, Ellie has become a key member of the team, which supports individuals and families in need, and is planning a career in community work.
The position was posted on the Connect Torfaen website and she is now urging others to visit the site and find out about volunteering opportunities in their local area.
She said: “I was looking to find a role that offered variety and new experiences daily. This position at Hope for the Community is my first volunteering role in which I hope marks the beginning my journey in community-based work.
“Connect Torfaen is an invaluable resource for discovering local of volunteering opportunities and events.”
Ellie’s volunteering role sees her serving customers in the community shop and café, as well as helping at special events throughout the year.
As a fluent Welsh speaker, she also helps out with a Welsh-speaking group who meet at the café.
She is hoping to start an apprenticeship with Hope for the Community later this year.
Cllr Fiona Cross, Torfaen Council's Executive Member for Communities, said: "By working with organisations like Hope for the Community and Torfaen Voluntary Alliance, we enable individuals to gain valuable skills and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
"Our approach supports, facilitates and empowers residence to find the right opportunity that suits them, boosting community spirit and harnessing diverse talents across the borough. Ellie’s story exemplifies how we're collectively helping individuals achieve their goals while strengthening the very fabric of our communities."
If you’re looking for your dream volunteer role or are just looking to commit a few hours each week to support community projects in Torfaen, visit www.connecttorfaen.org.uk