Take a read of TeamKinetic’s Ashraf, on his day as a volunteer and what he got up to at Liverpool FC Foundation. From a history lesson on the organisation, an action-packed tournament at Albert Dock and how the Foundation is benefiting from using TeamKinetics volunteer management software.

 

LFC foundation

 

The Journey

I got on my train at 8:00 am from Manchester Piccadilly to Liverpool lime street with a minute to spare. As I took a seat I made sure I was well equipt for the day, going through my checklist of things I needed to complete and making sure I didn’t forget anything important. When I arrived at Liverpool I was a little lost as my internet data had run out, but we live in the 21st century where the city provides you with public wifi. Thank God!

After a quick coffee and mapping out my route, I made my way to Chapel Street. I was greeted by the friendly Dawn Georgeson (Volunteer Manager for Liverpool FC Foundation), who provided me with my volunteering T-shirt / Hoodie and my office pass for the day. I was really excited to find out more about the Foundation and the work they do around the city. As well as spending my day as a Liverpool FC Foundation volunteer.

Getting to know the team

When we arrived at the office, I was welcomed by the rest of the group who all introduced themselves and made me feel part of the team.  After changing into my Liverpool FC Foundation attire, I was ready for my induction and briefing by Dawn. I was treated like any other volunteer and was asked to provide information such as:

  • Past volunteering experience I have gained over the years.
  • What motivated me to volunteer
  • What I have gained from being a volunteer

Dawn mentioned that she likes to meet and chat with all her volunteers, as it allows her to understand each volunteer individually, as well as assessing which roles they would be more suited to. This was great, as it made me feel valued and helped me develop some instant rapport with Dawn.

My induction interview introduced me to Rinchen (Digital Analyst Intern). Rinchen is also a volunteer at the Liverpool FC Foundation but has gained a 6 week paid internship through his voluntary work with the club. Richens passion was clear to see and he explained to me his reasons for getting involved

” With the foundation coming up and my love for Liverpool football club, it all came together really well. I joined because I wanted to try something new and improve my confidence, by getting into different situations and getting into different activities”

It was fantastic to see how Rinchen’s volunteering had helped him gain a role at his favourite football club. Rinchen went on to say how

“The TeamKinetic volunteer system was very simple and easy to use. The features where you can log and total up hours and say what went right and wrong is really helpful”.

Taking part and volunteering

After getting to know the team and the organisation at the office,  it was time to head to Albert Dock.  Liverpool FC Foundation hosts a number of training sessions and football tournaments at the floating football pitch. It was outstanding to see so many young people attending the sessions and how popular it was with the local community.

Liverpool’s Albert Dock Floating Pitch

Being a volunteer for the day it was important to get stuck in with the activities. I spent some time talking to the crowds of spectators, informing them about upcoming matches and events that the Liverpool FC Foundation had coming up.

I also helped with providing the players with water bottles during their games and providing support and encouragement.  Not to mention, I gathered video and pictures of the activities that took place at Albert Dock. It was fantastic to see so many people getting involved and enjoying this free sports event.

Again everyone was so welcoming! I got to chat with some of the coaches and other volunteers and understand a little more about what they do around the community. The foundation provides opportunities for so many people and helps them:

  • Develop new skills such as ball control.
  • Learn how to work as part of a team and become a better team player.
  • Provide courses that aim to inspire the next generation of female footballers

Rounding up the day

Once the activities ended, we made our way back to the Liverpool FC office.  I was taken on a tour, and I got to see achievements of the club. I wanted to find out more about the Liverpool FC foundations plans for volunteering, so I sat down with Dawn and Katie for a chat.

We discussed their volunteering background and what fueled their motivation to work in the voluntary sector. In addition, we talked about their progress using the TeamKinetic volunteer software. It was great to hear that they found the volunteer system extremely helpful and how it has allowed them to expand their programme.  You can read my interview with Dawn and Katie here.

I made my way back to the train station and kissed goodbye to public WiFi. Overall I had a fantastic day and enjoyed getting to know more about the foundation. I look forward to returning to volunteer at the Liverpool FC Foundation and gaining even more understanding.

If you would like to find out more about TeamKinetic or if you have any questions. Please get in touch with me at – ash@teamkinetic.co.uk