I started volunteering with TCV in 2017 having spent years working in construction sales sitting predominantly on my bum between offices, portacabins, McDonalds and my car.
I would like to say that it was something profound that led me to TCVs door like ‘the mountains were calling me’ or that I felt ‘the clearest way into the universe was through a forest wilderness’, but it wasn’t. I had been working with people for whom work was something you get through before you retire (or die) and the value of your career was measured in the spec of the car you drive and the clothes you wear and luckily realised it wasn’t for me.
So I decided I would aim for three things;
- To become healthier (both physically and mentally).
- To work with people who are passionate about what they do.
- To make an overall improvement to the world from my life.
I left my job, made a plan to begin volunteering with as many different types of organisations as it took to find the perfect place for me and, as I have always loved exploring and walking in Scotland, started with TCV.
I’ve not needed to look any further. Almost three years on I am the senior project officer with EPIC (Enabling Projects in Clackmannanshire). We work to improve biodiversity and access across the paths, parks and greenspaces of Clackmannanshire, as well as supporting superb community organisations in achieving their visions for local areas.
As for my aims;
- I am healthier and have more energy than ever (even with a 6-week-old baby and a pup).
- I am inspired every day by the brilliant people surrounding me.
- I get to work alongside amazing volunteers improving beautiful local environments and the communities that thrive when connected with them.
TCV has given me the opportunity to discover what I am passionate about, develop my passions in to skills & experience and has then provided me with the opportunities to share them with others as a career.
I have continued my exploration of Scotland’s greenspaces but have switched; my briefcase for a beard, my brogues for some dirty boots and my latte for some loppers.
The Conservation Volunteers are a special bunch, I am proud to be one of them.