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| Anjeli Shah - Cathedral Camp, London, U.K - August 2009 |
''This summer I completed a residential voluntary work camp. It is officially called a Cathedral Camp, where you go away for a week and undertake conservation work in a church. I went to stay in Sloane Square, City of Westminster, London. I participated in doing voluntary work in two churches called St Mary’s and St Barnanbas.
''I signed up for this project a couple of months ago. I had already completed some voluntary work projects in conservation at different nature reserve sites in London. Therefore, I had developed a certain outside interest for conservation and restoration work. This is partly why I chose to go on the Cathedral Camp. I also thought it would be a fantastic opportunity, as I have never completed a residential voluntary work project or been away from home for as long as a week.
''Upon arriving at the camp, at the beginning of August 2009, I instantly felt comfortable. The leaders of the camp were extremely friendly and welcoming. Also, I made friends quickly and easily within hours of the camp. All of the campers were interesting, entertaining and very friendly.
''During the week, I did some conservation work in the churches. I carried out tasks such as polishing floors, waxing wood, painting railings, cleaning windows and polishing statues. Some of these jobs were rather tedious and after a hard day’s work I must admit I felt very tired. However, I felt an immense sense of satisfaction to see that I was making a difference in both of the churches. As well as carrying out conservation work, on one of the days of the week I volunteered to cook and prepare meals for the rest of the campers, along with another girl. This was quite challenging as I have never cooked for fifteen people before! However, it definitely showed me that I can do anything I put my mind to.
''As well as completing voluntary work during the week, I also had the opportunity to take some time out and explore London with the other campers. Although I currently live in London I must admit I haven’t as much as I would have hoped to. However, at the weekend of the camp I had so much fun with the others; visiting museums, parks and the BBC Proms in central London. One of the most memorable parts of the week was going on a tour of Westminster Abbey which was pretty amazing!
''I feel that this experience has definitely improved my confidence. Before I attended the camp, I had my reservations about going away for a week on my own. However, after doing this residential stay I would definitely consider doing something similar in the future. I met some amazing people and had a lovely time. Now I definitely feel like I have done something that makes me stand out from everyone. I enjoy volunteering and I will continue to do so as I love to help other people.
''Finally, I would like a say a huge thank you to World Wide Volunteering for providing me with the bursary for this project. Without the bursary I don’t think I would have been able to go on the camp. The bursary scheme is definitely a benefit to a lot of people as it provides many with opportunities to do something different and beneficial to other people. ''
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