We Are AAM - Sam
This month we got to catch up with Sam, one of our brilliant volunteers at AAM. We wanted to find out what he enjoys about working with us and what he gets out of being a volunteer.
How long have you been a volunteer with AAM?
I have been a volunteer at AAM for over a year and a half.
How did you hear about AAM and what made you want to be a volunteer?
I became aware of AAM after enquiring in York about possibilities regarding working with an arts based charity or organisation. I am studying for my Masters in Fine Arts at York St John University and was eager to do some arts based work with people in the community to run parallel with this and gain some experience.
What do you do as a volunteer?
During my first 12 months I worked along side Heather Dawe on the ‘Occasional Painters’ sessions as an artists assistant/technician. Since then I have moved up to the office to try and learn the ropes there and gain a better understanding of how the organisation is run and how it works as a whole.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering with AAM and what would you say to anyone considering volunteering with us?
I enjoy many aspects of working at AAM. The people are friendly, supportive and easy to work with. The atmosphere is a family one. It is obvious daily how genuine their care is towards all of the participants and how committed they are to the many sessions and events they provide. Working somewhere that isn’t simply a ‘means to an end’ played a huge part in my motivation to volunteer at AAM initially. After a while the all-inclusive nature of what is provided at the Burton Stone Community Centre proves to be both infectious and inspirational. I would encourage anyone considering volunteering to get involved and throw themselves into it. It is very rewarding to feel that you are actually making a difference to people’s lives.
Tell us one random fact about yourself!
When I was studying for my degree, also in Fine Art, in Norwich I was a the guitarist in a rock band called Sneaking Fog. It started off as a bit of a laugh, playing at the University and at various venues in the area. By our third year we were lucky enough to get some high profile support slots with the likes of eighties rock band The Quireboys and also with The Darkness. I have little money to show for it but they were great times! We are always looking for volunteers at AAM to help us deliver our life-changing projects. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, or would just like to find out more, please visit our website for details.