Volunteering is often described as “giving back”. But for many, it becomes something far more powerful. This National Volunteers’ Week, we’re celebrating the inspiring journey of one of our dedicated volunteer counsellors, Luschka, whose experience highlights just how life-changing volunteering can be. For both the people supported and the volunteer themselves.
Luschka’s volunteering journey began as part of an in-person placement with Paragon/STAR. What started as a required step in her professional development quickly became something much deeper.
“It’s tough at times, but seeing people’s lives change is so rewarding. I’ve stayed on a year beyond my placement requirement.”
Now, 18 months later, Luschka continues to volunteer as a counsellor, dedicating her time and expertise to supporting others through some of life’s most challenging moments.
The power of human connection
At the heart of Luschka’s role is something simple yet profound, human connection. Free from the pressures of business functions like marketing and admin, volunteering allows her to focus entirely on the person in front of her.
“What I enjoy most is being able to focus on the human work.”
For many volunteers, this focus is what makes the experience so meaningful, the opportunity to truly listen, support, and connect.
When asked about her favourite moments, Luschka reflects on the powerful turning points she witnesses in her clients:
“It’s the moment their eyes light up with the realisation that they are worthy of good things… The moment of awareness shows on people’s faces as shock, then understanding, often emotional and always beautiful.”
These moments of change are what make volunteering so impactful, small breakthroughs that create lasting transformations.
Volunteering doesn’t just change the lives of others, it also fosters continuous learning and growth.
“Every new client shows me where I still have to learn and grow.”
Luschka actively builds on her skills through courses, seminars, podcasts, and CPD opportunities, embracing the reality that no two people, and no two experiences, are ever the same.
Quiet acts of kindness
One of the most meaningful aspects of Luschka’s volunteering is something she doesn’t often highlight — the fact that she chooses not to tell clients she is a volunteer.
When clients do find out, the impact can be profound.
“For someone who feels unwanted or unworthy, knowing that to at least one person they were more than just a pay check can be really touching and healing.”
It’s a powerful reminder that volunteering is not just about time, it’s about genuine care.
Empowering others
For Luschka, the most rewarding part of her role is seeing clients recognise their own strength:
“When someone says, ‘you’ve helped me so much,’ I reflect back that I just held the space — they did the work.”
This approach empowers individuals to take ownership of their growth, reinforcing that true change comes from within.
If Luschka could describe her volunteering experience in one sentence, it would be this:
“Volunteering is about giving back, but in truth, I’ve gained so much knowledge and experience, I wouldn’t be the counsellor I am without it.”
Her words perfectly capture the essence of volunteering, a mutually transformative experience.
