Celebrating our volunteers

Each year, we receive thousands of hours of support from more than 100 volunteers. Without them, we would not be able to deliver our life-changing work. 

Throughout this year's Volunteer Week, we're celebrating the dedication of our wonderful volunteers. Thank you for your time and prayers. Volunteers are a vital part of the SCIAF family; only by working together can we end poverty, and continue building the just and green world we all want to see. 

We would like to introduce you to three of our very special school volunteers: Cath McGrath, Mary Larkin, and Vincent Raeburn. Read on to learn about why they volunteer for SCIAF.

Cath McGrath

"I was involved with SCIAF when I was a teacher and two of my former colleagues volunteered when they retired. I wanted to contribute to SCIAF because I care deeply about fighting injustices, and helping people less fortunate than myself. I started volunteering because I wanted to connect with people and give back as I have been very fortunate in life. Volunteering gave me an opportunity to use my skills to promote SCIAF in the community and make a difference. I feel valued and part of a great team."

Mary Larkin

Watch Mary's thought-provoking video today to hear what inspired her to become a schools volunteer.

I never cease to be amazed at the compassion and generosity of children in schools in their support of people less fortunate than themselves.

Vincent Raeburn

"After I retired from 35 years of teaching, I became a schools volunteer with SCIAF. I have thoroughly enjoyed visiting schools and meeting the wonderful and enthusiastic staff and pupils involved in helping the team. I have felt humbled to witness the compassion and generosity of spirit shown by the school communities to help some of the poorest people on the planet. 

"I joined SCIAF in order to help make a difference to the lives of those less fortunate than us here in Scotland. It is very rewarding to learn about some of the successes SCIAF have had in some of the most disadvantaged countries across several continents. I pray and hope that once we emerge from COVID, that I can go out to our terrific supporters and share the good news that continues to be a consistent feature in SCIAF's mission."