Around a month ago my cousin and I signed up to volunteer at a charity
called Rhythms of Life.The main reason for me signing up was because I
was on a gap year so wanted to use it to gain different experiences,
one of which being helping those less fortunate. I came with an open
mind, not knowing what to expect and the conditions I was going to be
working in. I met the man in charge called Faris. He was a friendly
man and during my informal interview I came to understand his passion
and dedication towards his work at Rhythms of Life, more of which I
saw during my time there.

After the interview Faris told us that the kitchen was short-staffed
and so we were going to be the chefs for the day. We were taken into
the kitchen at the back of the building and began chopping various
vegetables for a soup.The kitchen was quite organised and clean and I
found the task fun as we all worked together. It was interesting to
meet the people who came to make use of our services as they varied in
ethnicity, age and culture.

It was satisfying for me to watch them enjoying the food and made me
feel proud to be part of an organisation that provides such an
excellent service. Next, we served sandwiches and baguettes with some
fruit that
they could take away with them and eat later. This service is provided
everyday at Rhythms of Life all year round thanks to the committed
volunteers that help selflessly.

The service povided is excellent but also comes with it
challenges.The people who we serve can be demanding and it is our duty
to meet the demands as best we can to maintain a relaxed atmosphere.
As a result of the relaxed and friendly atmosphere everyone at Rhythms
of life works together well and have a great deal of respect for each
other and those they serve. Everyone shares the duties equally and no
one minds getting their hands dirty, whether it’s washing up or
cleaning the kitchen. We have formed a well-knit team that makes any
new additions feel very welcome.

During my time at Rhythms of life I have had a lot of fun meeting new
people and working in an environment
where everyone is treated with the utmost respect. Despite the
commitment that Rhythms of Life receives from its volunteers, its
still in need of financial help to support the work we do. The
facilities could be improved e.g. in the kitchen we only have a small
electric oven that often creates difficulties when warming up the
food. With more ongoing support, Rhythms of Life will flourish and
help support and reach out to those people that need it most.