Emily is a nurse who was inspired to volunteer by the Family Fast Day talks at her church.
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Emily is a Parish volunteer in the Westminster Diocese.
What first inspired me to volunteer for CAFOD was listening year after year to the stories about the people CAFOD is helping around the world. I have been a practising Catholic for 26 years and have been part of this parish for all that time. I was married at Our Lady of the Visitation (in Greenford, London) and all my children were baptised and confirmed here. They also attended Our Lady of the Visitation School, so the parish has always been a central part of my life.
My desire to support CAFOD grew over time. I had always wanted to do more for the parish, and eventually I found the courage to approach the previous volunteers and ask if I could join them. Listening to the stories shared through CAFOD, I often felt a deep personal connection, as many of the experiences reflected my own past.
I grew up in Ghana, and for a period during a coup life was extremely difficult. There were times when there was very little food or water. I remember having to walk long distances to a well to collect water and carry it back home on my head. Some days, we had almost nothing to eat. I also remember when a Christian charity came to our area and brought us small treats—those moments stayed with me.
Because of these experiences, I feel a strong connection to CAFOD’s mission. I understand, in a personal way, the challenges many people still face, and that is what motivated me to get involved and give back.
The best thing about volunteering for CAFOD has been the sense of making a real difference in people’s lives, while also bringing our parish community together.
Seeing the generosity of people at Our Lady of the Visitation during collections, especially during Lent, has been truly inspiring. It is amazing to witness how willing people are to support others in need, and to know that our efforts are helping communities around the world.
I have also really valued the sense of community and shared purpose. Working alongside other volunteers and engaging with parishioners has strengthened my connection to the parish and deepened my faith.
On a personal level, it has been especially meaningful because of my own experiences growing up. Being able to give back through CAFOD, knowing first hand the kind of difference that support like this can make, has been incredibly rewarding.
Through my faith, I have come to understand the importance of helping others, especially those who are less fortunate. Listening to CAFOD’s work over the years and reflecting on my own life experiences has deepened this commitment. I have seen how small acts of kindness and generosity can make a real difference.
My faith has also given me a sense of purpose and responsibility to give back. It has encouraged me to step forward, get involved, and support both my local parish and wider communities around the world. In many ways, volunteering has been a way of putting my faith into action.
I have had many meaningful memories one has been working alongside other volunteers, supporting each other and building friendships through a shared purpose.
What stands out for me is the feeling of giving back. Because of my own experiences growing up, being part of something that helps others facing hardship has been deeply personal and fulfilling.
One of my most special memories was during the Harvest celebration one year. I encouraged my daughter, who was 12 at the time, along with some of her friends from school, to do the reading.
It was such a powerful and emotional moment—it brought tears to my eyes and to many members of the congregation. At the end, they received a standing ovation, which made it even more memorable.
Seeing their confidence grow in that moment was incredibly rewarding. It was not only a proud moment as a parent, but also a reminder of how encouraging young people to take part in the life of the parish can have such a positive and lasting impact.
If you are considering volunteering but haven’t yet taken that step, I would really encourage anyone. Volunteering is not only about helping others; it is also incredibly rewarding on a personal level. You meet new people, become more connected to your community and gain a real sense of purpose.
From my own experience, taking that first step was the hardest part. You don’t need special skills just a willingness to help and a bit of time.
Even the smallest effort can have a big impact, both for those you are helping and for yourself.
