Volunteering - why do we do it ?

There are probably as many answers to that question as there are Samaritans! Some common themes do exist and it is not unusual to hear the following reasons:

"I do it because I like to help people and I thought that I might have the right skills for it...."

"I do it because I want to give something back to society....."

"I do it because once, I needed someone to talk to and I was lucky enough to have a friend there for me - I couldn't bear to think that I had a problem and didn't have anyone to talk to. Later, when I felt that I had the emotional strength again myself I wanted to be part of ensuring that everyone has someone who they can share a problem with...."

"I do it because I was looking for a way of helping, but at the same time developing myself and my skills. Samaritans has provided me with training in listening skills that I can use in many other areas of my life..."