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Rugby World Cup JAPAN 2019

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On 17th September 2019

In Community, News & Views, Sport

The Rugby World Cup is quickly approaching us, and I’m sure fans can’t wait for the contest to begin. The enjoyment of supporting your country before they go into battle against the opposition. I’m sure laughs, tears, and questionable language will be fuelled by countless pints down at many of your local pubs.

Small history lesson

The upcoming World Cup is a rugby union tournament contested every four years between the very toughest of international teams. The first-ever Rugby World Cup was contested in 1987, it was co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand with sixteen nations taking part. New Zealand became the first champions defeating France 29-9.

The warriors who succeed in their battles are awarded the Webb Ellis Cup at the end of the tournament. Legend has it that Webb Ellis was the inventor of rugby. Stumbling across the game by deciding to pick up the ball during a football match. Webb Ellis probably didn’t comprehend at the time of picking up the ball, that rugby would go onto generate revenue of approximately 228million pounds. This being the figure derived from the last Rugby World Cup hosted by England in 2015.

Rugby World Cup volunteers

The Japan 2019 organising committee has launched ‘Team No Side’ the official volunteers for the Rugby World Cup. Which is made up of over 10,000 volunteers across the twelve host cities of Japan. Around 38,000 volunteers applied for the position, these volunteers aim to connect and interact with fans to create a memorable experience. The recruitment process began in 2018 with successful applicants being given complete training in preparation for the big event.

The training for Team No Side started in February and March earlier this year. Their first training session covered learning about the history of the World Cup. I’m sure volunteering in the Rugby World cup will be a memorable experience. However, the volunteers involved are not allocated pre-paid travel cards to travel between each venue, neither will they receive any discount from accommodation providers. Which is hard to digest, as this is a globally televised event.

The Rugby World Cup previously hosted by England had more than 20,000 application forms submitted, with only 6,000 of the keenest people being granted success. The successful applicants joined the group named ‘Join The Pack,’ 4,000 of the volunteers were from Rugby clubs and the remaining 2,000 were from outside of clubs. Committee leader Debbie Jevans felt this was just the right balance of passionate rugby enthusiasts.

Rugby clubs near you

Many volunteers that are a part of their local clubs volunteer because they want to give something back. The volunteers may be ex-players themselves or have younger children who are passionate about the sport. Most clubs across the UK are very busy, grass pitches are the UK’s most popular space of physical exercise so it’s not surprising there is a demand for volunteers.

Throughout an average week, rugby clubs can receive a wide spectrum of players wanting to take part in various training sessions, juniors, men’s, women’s and touch. As you could imagine that’s a lot of muddy people to manage at one time. That’s during the weekdays alone, without considering match days on weekends, which could include tournaments and away games. Without volunteers, these opportunities for people to stay active and enjoy the sport would just not be possible. Rain or shine local coaches are there on the sideline giving constructive guidance or perhaps just hailing light-hearted abuse in your direction. But it’s all good fun!

If you think rugby is something you would like to be apart of then you should consider contacting your local clubs secretary. They will then be able to inform you what volunteering opportunities they have available, and the training you may need in order to start volunteering.

My dad was a volunteer coach. Without that type of involvement things just don’t happen and aren’t quite as good as they could be without volunteers. This is especially true in light of the Rugby World Cup.

Jonny Wilkinson

A volunteering inspiration

Jeremy Wares, 36 was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Following his diagnosis, Jeremy was understandably shaken by the news. He had always wanted to coach his son in rugby but he wasn’t sure of the near future of his health at the time of his diagnoses.

In the previous 15years, Jeremy had made a living for himself being a chef in Paris. Catering in very well established restaurants which were fit for President Mitterrand. Jeremy had then gone on to establish his own restaurants in Scotland, 63 Tay Street and The Anglers Inn.

Despite the news, Jeremy was able to use his previous skillset of being a Caterer to organise events for Perthshire Rugby Club. These events have included the Perthshire Beer Festival which attracts around 20,000 people each year. Jeremy remains very hands-on with these events cooking a lot of the food himself. Alongside busy event planning, Jeremy has also been able to coach his son in the rugby team, which he was doubtful about at the start.

Inlight of his illness Jeremy felt he had to give something back and he’s done a fantastic job. Jeremy says “the secret is to remain active and keep going” only when he stops for too long does his condition seem to become more visible. Jeremy’s efforts were rewarded as Scottish volunteer of the season.

Grow your organisation with TeamKinetic

Grow your volunteering community with TeamKinetic volunteer management

TeamKinetic invites all organisations who feel they would be able to benefit from our software to get in touch. Remember we don’t limit the number of volunteers or the number of opportunities you can have available. We want your organisation and the communities you work with to grow and prosper.

The Volunteers Behind Liverpool FC Foundation

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On 11th September 2019

In Case Study, Community, Sport

The LFC foundation has 315 volunteers and 22 volunteering opportunities. According to our system, volunteers at LFC have recorded more than 1,200 hours of volunteering. The LFC foundation aims to create life-changing opportunities for children and young people. Currently, LFC works with up to 3,000 children and young people a week improving their health, education and overall chances in life.

Recently I was lucky enough to volunteer as part of the Respect 4 All project at LFC. Originally this project began in 2009 and helps approximately 400 participants every year. LFC works with local and national organisations in developing sport and physical activity opportunities for young children with complex needs.

I have to say that this was a spectacular day! During my time at LFC, I was able to witness the work LFC Foundation does. I can tell you now that LFC truly makes a difference to every young person’s life. LFC provides a space and an opportunity for these children to learn, get active and most importantly have fun! I would like to commend all the volunteers who were there as well, giving their own free time up to help benefit and make a change to someone else’s life for one day. Luckily for me, I had the chance to speak to some of the volunteers and get there say on why they volunteer.

I previously volunteered for ‘Everton In The Community’ for 15 years maybe more (said under his breath quietly). I started at Everton because my grandad was an Everton fan and he first introduced me to the club. But it is my first time volunteering at Liverpool today and hopefully one of many. I like helping out where ever I can, volunteering makes me feel happy and useful it’s something I don’t plan on stopping, I love doing what I do. Alongside volunteering, I play for the LFC Foundation disability football team who I train with every Monday. As much as I love volunteering in football – I also love playing it too.

Paul aged 39 (LFC Volunteer and football player)
Milo and Micheal

I’ve been volunteering for the last year at LFC because of my educational pathways. At college, I am currently studying in sports and my future career goals are to be a football coach. So to pursue my career goals I have been helping out at LFC Foundation to gain some experience. But as well as seeking a job in coaching, I enjoy meeting new people and most of all it can be a really good laugh. Also, I am quite an active person and I don’t like sitting around the house. LFC provides a chance for me to get out and do something physical. The secret for me is enjoying what I do, then it doesn’t seem like work.

Micheal Murray Aged 17 (Student)
Milo and Anas

Today is my first day volunteering at The LFC Foundation but I am enjoying it thoroughly. Previously I have volunteered at the Netball World Cup in Liverpool. But I am volunteering here today because I am a Liverpool football fan who just wanted to help out in my local community. I feel it is something everyone should try to get involved with at least once in their lives. Originally I am from India but I am spending my time in Liverpool to pursue my master’s degree in cardiovascular health. During the time I have left before my degree is over I want to get involved in as many volunteering opportunities as possible.

I was able to find the Respect 4 All opportunity through using The LFC Foundations webpage. Which uses TeamKinetic volunteering management system. The system was very easy to manoeuvre around and made finding and signing up to opportunities easy, I had no issues at all.

Anas usman aged 28 (physiotherapist)

Be happy and love what you do

What was great about listening to the volunteers was that I could tell that each volunteer I spoke to was passionate and happy to be volunteering at LFC. All the volunteers that I spoke to were happy and smiling, be it there first time or one of many. This reflects so positively on LFC and also the volunteering community.

Volunteering attracts a wide spectrum of people who volunteer for many different reasons. Education, helping the community, the love of helping others or being associated with local clubs. Each volunteer has a purpose of why they want to volunteer and what they want to get out of it.

The question is: What’s your purpose and what do you want to achieve from volunteering? Only you can know that.

Teamkinetic

Creating a Legacy Post-Women’s World Cup

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On 2nd September 2019

In Community, News & Views, Sport

FIFA Women's World Cup Logo. Women's football, volunteering, women in volunteering, volunteer management, volunteer management software, volunteer management system, volunteer management software uk, volunteer software.

It’s been over two months since the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2019 captured the nation’s attention with some thrilling games; the tournament didn’t fall short of goals with 146 in total, and England’s semi-final v USA had us on the edge of our seats.

Viewership for that game was at a record of 11.7 million, making it the UK’s most-watched women’s football game of all time, and the most-watched programme of 2019 so far. So how do we create a legacy post-World Cup?

History

In the early 20th century, women’s football was very popular and grew in popularity as men went to war. The famous Dick Kerr Ladies played St Helen’s Ladies on Boxing Day in 1920, attracting over 53,000 spectators to Everton’s Goodison Park with thousands of fans watching from outside. Higher attendance figures than most football clubs today!

Dick Kerr Ladies. Women's football, volunteering, women in volunteering, volunteer management, volunteer management software, volunteer management system, volunteer management software uk, volunteer software.

However, in 1921 the FA decided it would implement a ban on female participation in the sport. Football was considered to be unsuitable for women and they believed it should not be encouraged. Luckily, views began to change in the 1960s, with the Women’s Football Association (WFA) being formed in 1969. The ban on women’s football was officially rescinded in 1971 by the FA after persuasion from the WFA. We have to wonder what would have happened if women’s football was never banned… Would it be more popular than the men’s game today? Would we see more equality – or even total equality – in the sport?

England wasn’t the only country to ban the sport either, with bans in Norway (1931), France (1932), Brazil (1941), and West Germany (1955). In contrast, in 1972 the USA added legislation (named Title IX) that prohibited discrimination on the basis of sex in any educational program or activity that received federal funding. In other words, when it came to football (or soccer) in school, men and women were awarded equal rights. This is probably why the USA are such powerhouses of women’s football today! However, they still can’t get equal pay from the US Soccer Federation.

On the rise again…

England Women's Football Team. Women's football, volunteering, women in volunteering, volunteer management, volunteer management software, volunteer management system, volunteer management software uk, volunteer software.

Since the first FIFA Women’s World Cup in 1991, football has seen steady growth amongst women across the world. With an average of 150,000 female players competing in the affiliated league and cup competitions in England alone. Nevertheless, there is still room for improvement and growth.

Referee Stephanie Frappart also took charge of the 2019 UEFA Super Cup, making her the first woman to take charge of a major men’s UEFA cup final.

The game has come on a long way in many ways, in terms of the Womens’ World Cup which we all watched this summer and showed how much respect the women’s game is getting. We’re trying to make strides and there’s a long way to go but [the cup final] will be a huge moment because it’s one more step in the right direction.

Stephanie Frappart

Furthermore, the FA Women’s Championship started last weekend and the FA WSL returns this weekend with a massive game. Manchester City and newly-promoted Manchester United will battle it out for their first three points of the season at the Etihad Stadium. Tickets for all WSL and Championship games can be found here.

So how do we get more young females involved in football?

Maybe we should start by giving them the opportunity that was once taken away from them? Or maybe we could just make all women’s football more accessible to watch.

Well, The FA may have done just that! They recently announced that all 132 WSL games and select Championship games would be streamed live via their app. This is a massive step which will hopefully increase the viewership of women’s football. However, some don’t agree with the move, stating that it will lower stadium attendances.

Female involvement doesn’t have to stop at the participation level. Roles in football go beyond playing; coaches, referees, administrators, pundits, volunteers all contribute to the success of the sport too.

Women and girls from some ethnic communities are unaware of the opportunities which exist and there are cultural, religious and social norms to overcome.

Organisations we work with that are making a difference:

We work with a number of organisations that sit at the forefront of football and are making a real impact when it comes to female participation. Some of these organisations include the Liverpool FC Foundation and the Manchester Football Association.

Liverpool FC Foundation. Women's football, volunteering, women in volunteering, volunteer management, volunteer management software, volunteer management system, volunteer management software uk, volunteer software.

You can read our blogs about the LFC Foundation below:
– Why Liverpool FC Foundation are using TeamKinetic volunteer software.
– A day volunteering at Liverpool FC Foundation.
– The Liverpool FC Foundation’s impact on volunteers with a disability.

Manchester FA. Women's football, volunteering, women in volunteering, volunteer management, volunteer management software, volunteer management system, volunteer management software uk, volunteer software.

TeamKinetic caught up with Katherine Jones from the Manchester FA to talk about some of the work they do around the city to impact women’s football.

This is what she had to say…

What is being done at your organisation to ensure women’s football continues to grow, and what things could be done to improve this?

Katherine gave me a long list of great things the Manchester FA is doing to ensure the growth of the women’s game! The full list is as follows:

  • Work with leagues to ensure that suitable playing pathways exist, promoting the transition from youth to adult football.
  • Work with clubs to support them to develop a full pathway (U7-Open age) for female players to access football.
  • Run celebration events to enhance and celebrate the female game.
  • Raise the profile of the game through focussed promotion (Women’s World Cup, Women’s Euros, Olympic games).
  • Support clubs and organisations to run the FA Wildcats programme as the main engagement programme for 5-11-year-old girls.
  • Work with the local school sports organisers to facilitate and support girls football programmes across Oldham, Tameside, Trafford, Manchester and Salford.
  • Deliver a monthly further education football and futsal offer.
  • Drive and develop a monthly futsal offer for girls in the U8-U16 age group.
  • Deliver a recreational female football opportunity on a weekly basis.
  • Create a full pathway from casual entry-level participation, to our highest placed amateur teams within the regional league structure.
  • Support players performing well within grassroots football to access the Regional Talent Club pathway (Manchester City & Manchester United Girls RTC’s).
  • Support female referees and coaches along with officials working within the female game.

Have you seen higher success rates in any particular approaches so far?

“We’ve seen a lot of success across the board, to be honest, Wildcats is our flagship entry-level programme to engage new girls within football, and this has seen lots of success in bolstering mini soccer (5-11) participation. The programme has been rolled out across clubs and providers and we have 33 centres currently running across Manchester, which provides an opportunity for girls to access football, within a short travelling distance regardless of where they live within Manchester.”

Have you experienced any pushback from clubs/leagues around Manchester?

“We haven’t seen any pushback really, because the vast majority of people now understand the emphasis and importance of facilitating football opportunities for female players, and people are much more engaged with female football at the top level, so they appreciate the technical ability level that female players can reach.”

Why is it important to get more women involved in football/football volunteering?

“The importance of these opportunities and the role models involved in the game is significant to inspire the next generation of female football, and to ensure that the game continually grows as the first choice sport for women in England.”

I would like to thank Katherine for her time, answering my questions gave great insight into all the amazing work the Manchester FA do!

The importance of female volunteers in women’s football

Britain's first female Muslim football referee. Women's football, volunteering, women in volunteering, volunteer management, volunteer management software, volunteer management system, volunteer management software uk, volunteer software.
Britain’s first female Muslim football referee

Football is the most popular sport in the world! Played by millions of people each day, but it simply wouldn’t be possible without volunteers.

There isn’t a football game or competition that doesn’t involve at least one volunteer. It goes without saying, volunteers are an integral part of sports success. This plays an even bigger role in women’s football!

The increase of female participation in football calls for more volunteers to ensure the game continues to expand and grow. By having more regular female volunteers, young girls getting involved in football/football-related activities can receive the support they deserve.

How volunteers can help football

There are a number of roles and activities volunteers can get involved in to help:

Volunteer with your local club

Most local clubs are always in need of volunteers to help out with a variety of roles on offer; from running social media accounts to being a fixture secretary.

Become a first aider

Every week teams play and every week someone gets injured, so there is always a desire for first aiders. St John Ambulance and British Red Cross run first aid training courses.

Become a coach

What better way to inspire the next generation of talented female footballers than to be the one coaching them? There are a number of ways of getting started and its a great way to challenge yourself.

How we can help

TeamKinetic helps to build better volunteer communities by providing great tools for volunteer managers that save time, make a better impact and improve insight. Our goal is to make volunteering easy for everyone no matter what. But don’t take our word for it, why not check out our customer reviews.

For more information on how TeamKinetic can assist with your volunteer management and getting the best out of all your volunteers visit our website, or contact us on – 0161 914 5757

Top 5 Tips For Volunteering Abroad

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On 5th August 2019

In Community, News & Views

Thailand
Thailand

The top 3 countries volunteers travel to are; The Philippines, India and Thailand, with 1.6 million people volunteering abroad every year. 84% of millennials said they would travel abroad to participate in volunteering activities and 39.52% said they would volunteer for their own professional development. So if you are one of those 84% then read on for our tips for volunteering abroad.

1. Make sure you know how to get there

“Getting lost, a good way to find yourself, unless you’re actually lost. Then you’ve got a problem”

A wise man once said

As obvious as it may sound, it’s essential you know exactly where in the world you’re going to be travelling to. Most people use websites such as GVI and International Volunteer HQ when wanting to volunteer abroad. However, you must read the small print! Most volunteering opportunities do not include flights, and few have transfers organised to and from the airport. So always be sure of the best way to go about your journey. Plan ahead and always make contact with your provider in advance, they’ll be able to point you in the right direction.

2. Be proactive

Volunteering programmes
Volunteering programmes. Picture credit: Projects Abroad.

Engage with the local communities in which you plan to volunteer in, don’t just treat it as a photo opportunity. This can be done by listening and understanding what the local communities want and need. Be aware of your own prejudices and bias and listen; the community knows better than you. As a volunteer, you should consider learning about the political, social, economic and cultural histories of the places you visit. Which in better terms, will help stop you putting your foot in it!

3. Develop relationships

Building relationships
Building relationships

When volunteering abroad you want to ensure you develop relationships with the local community and stakeholders. Finding a real interest in someone will gain their trust over the course of your volunteering experience, by letting them know that you’re there to help. By communicating and developing relationships it will allow you to get the ball rolling between yourself and the local community and lubricate the path to what can be a rough road to the end goal. Remember your in someone else’s house, although it may be different from what you’re used to, they will be proud of their home – so always be respectful.

4. Manage your time wisely

Amazing places
Amazing places

Time is of the essence, you will be home before you know it. Try to make an action plan of what you want to achieve in your time volunteering – there is nothing worse than leaving a job half-finished. Assert maximum effort in all you do, hard work never goes unnoticed; it could lead to further volunteering in the future. But plan for free time! Get out and see the country you’ve travelled to, enjoy the culture and fully indulge in the experience.

5. Get something out of it

Take it all in
Take it all in

Your volunteering experience should help develop your skills. These could be employability skills for a future career, or they could be personal skills which you want to develop. But being out of your comfort zone and learning to adapt is a broad skill which can be utilized in many areas of your life. We all have to adapt, volunteering abroad will definitely take you out of your comfort zone.

Maintain your connections once you have finished, take down all the contact details and social media accounts of all the people you have met throughout your experience, they could be the sofa stop you need on a future magical experience.

TeamKinetic respects all areas of volunteering, locally or internationally. At the heart of it all, volunteers sacrifice their free time to help someone else, making the world a better place. By uniting communities and people together, mankind can truly do great things – Some of us just need a chance to show we can.

The Volunteer Opportunity Guide

By

On 22nd July 2019

In News & Views, TeamKinetic Features, Volunteer Management

Volunteers

Volunteering contributed 17.1bn to the economy in 2016/ 2017 representing 0.85% GDP. The voluntary sector had 870,000 workers in 2018 with an estimated value of voluntary activity being 23.9bn. Opportunities created by providers and organisations are allowing these figures grow even more everyday!

A Small Thanks From TeamKinetic

TeamKinetic is proud of the organisations we works with. So we thought it was only right to give a little shout out to some of these organisations and the opportunities they have on offer.

Many of these organisations vary in size, but the one thing they have in common is that they are all dedicated to helping people find volunteering opportunities that interest and challenge the volunteer.

What these organisations provide that many lack is the freedom for the volunteer to register and find opportunities in seconds. Whether its skill based, long term, one off, or more micro volunteering oriented opportunities for those people wanting to help but unable to commit to anything long term due to work and other life commitments.

So let’s find out more about these organisations and what they do around the community!

Humanity Road

HR

Humanity Road was founded in 2010 by Chris Thompson and Cat Graham. Both twin sisters who created the organisation to connect people, animals and emergency officials with help resources when disaster strikes.

Every year, Humanity Road volunteers help thousands of people around the world impacted by disaster. In 2016, the disaster desk was active for 3,878 hours. Volunteers responded to 105 events in 45 countries, and total volunteer hours of service topped 11,000 hours.

What makes humanity road different is that almost all their opportunities are flexible and can be done from the comfort of your home. Opportunities like this are great for people wanting to help but are time poor.

Liverpool FC Foundation

LFC

The LFC Foundation is the official charity of Liverpool Football Club. Their mission is to bring together the LFC family to create life changing opportunities for children and young people. The charity was formed in 2010 as a financially independent organisation to harness the power and passion their fans and supporters have to improve the lives of others.

The Liverpool foundation run a number of amazing events and days that volunteers can really get stuck into. Some of these opportunities include Respect4All Programme. Which is the LFC Foundation’s disability and inclusion project. Moreover the LFC Foundation make all the volunteers feel part of their community, something I experienced first hand!

University of East London

UEL

UEL connects students to professional, career-led volunteering opportunities with charities, public sector organisations and other non-for-profit organisations across London. They Focus on volunteering that align with students career aspirations, interests and availability. They define volunteering as “time willingly given for the common good and without financial gain. It is enriching and contributes to personal development and/ or career aspirations

The university offers opportunities all across the city which vary in skill, commitment and type. The opportunities provided by the university have allowed students to feel part of the community and gain experience they might have not had the opportunity to do so in the past. Volunteering at university allows students to develop new skills that benefit them once they leave.

Glasgow Life Events

GlasgowLife

Glasgow Life is part of the city wide partnership which aims to develop volunteering opportunities and to grow volunteering skills. Additionally each year Glasgow Life provides numerous rewarding, safe, and supported opportunities for volunteers. Some being one-off major events, to more regular activities in libraries, museums, and community facilities throughout the city with around 1500 people currently involved as volunteers in Glasgow Life activities.

Glasgow Life have hosted a number of world class events including the Athletics Indoor European Championships. Events like this bring the city together and offer a number of opportunities for people to get stuck in. The great thing about Glasgow Life is that, there is no shortage of fun and rewarding opportunities.

Volunteering Wales

Volunteering Wales

Volunteering Wales provides an integrated programme of volunteering support that aims to help more people get involved in volunteering. Benefiting their community and for their own personal development, and to help volunteering organisations to recruit and support their volunteers.

Volunteering Wales offer thousands of opportunities across Wales, working with various providers. Enabling potential volunteers to be able to select from a wide variety of activities, that they may wish to be apart of. In addition previous events have included fund raising events in support of the Samaritans and other charities.

Volunteering Wales enables younger people to get involved with volunteering. Providing a platform which connects younger people to opportunities they may have never thought about doing before, leading to the development of their social skills and creating new friends in volunteering along the way.

YHA

YHA believe that everyone should have the opportunity to discover, explore and experience something new – and what better way than through volunteering. Youth hostels offer a place to stay, a warm and safe welcome, accessible and flexible accommodation, activities and education packages and best of all they are open to everyone, whatever age or where they are from.

YHA have an extensive list of opportunities available from caretaking opportunities to hostel placement opportunities. Together with placement opportunities available in the city, country or in coastal areas across Britain. Hostel and student placements are perfect if you would like to gain hospitality experience, complete a work placement as part of your course of study, or to simply get away from home and lend a hand.

YHA opportunities provide unbelievable experience’s for those who may have came from harder upbringings and poorer family backgrounds. YHA is a unique organisation because they allow the opportunity to stay somewhere quite amazing. I stayed at the Snowdon Bryn Gwnant hostel, which is amazing and in a truly beautiful location!

Manchester VIP

MCRVIP

Manchester VIP identifies, trains, and deploys volunteers to support sport and physical activity across Manchester. Recruiting people from all backgrounds and developing their skills signposting them to opportunities within sports events, sports clubs, local communities and schools.

MCRVIP unites people together in a common cause; museum workers, park maintenance, city cleaning, library workers, or even athletics coaching. Their platform is bringing everyone together, showcasing masses of opportunities for people to get involved with across Manchester. Manchester volunteers feel part of something larger and their retention rate is phenomenal.

TK

TeamKinetic is massively thankful to be able to supply these wonderful organisations with our volunteering management software. We recognise and understand the value of volunteers, and so we support the opportunities, providers and volunteers that are contributing to the voluntary sector.

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Why Volunteer Locally?

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On 15th July 2019

In Community, News & Views

Local Town Hall

Across the UK 20.1 million people volunteered via a group, club, or organisation between 2017 and 2018, and over one in five people volunteer at least once a month. A small amount of compassion will improve someones day or even their week, but this is not just a one way experience. Volunteering can help improve your own health and develop your skills – no one said it had to be boring! You don’t just need to stack shelves in a library.

Leo Buscaglia
– L.B. American Author

“Don’t spend your precious time asking “Why isn’t the world a better place?” It will only be time wasted. The question to ask is “How can I make it better?” To that there is an answer.”

Leo buscaglia

Why volunteer locally?

Volunteering locally can help expand communities by uniting people in a common cause. But most people have no idea of how and where to begin. Don’t worry! Here is some inspiration and practical help on how you can start to make a small difference go along way.

Be apart of your local Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers

74th Silverdale scout group
74th Silverdale Scout group

Scouting first began in the early 20th century founded by Robert Baden Powell. Attracting boys and girls from all age ranges to participate in a variety of educational, and fun activities focused on the outdoors. Scouting groups heavily rely on volunteers to run weekly club meetings and trips. Could you help in your community?

I was a part of The Silverdale 74th scout group located in the ex-mining village in Stoke on Trent. Personally I have witnessed the true good scouting can have on the local community. Scouting encouraged me to give back to the local community, and help out with local community events and fund raisers. Silverdale scout group also provided me with a second home after I had finished a school day, keeping me occupied and off the streets. I would add that scouting equipped me with many skills and qualities, that are essential for a developing young person.

Today The Silverdale scout group continues to grow within the local community. Equipping the younger generation with life skills and valuable behavioral qualities. Over the years Silverdale’s scouting group has matured, but the scouting code remains firmly in place. To help other people at all times.

Volunteer at your local sport club

Swimming Club
Swimming Club

Sports clubs provide a real benefit to the surrounding communities. My son is a part of the local swimming club in Manchester. Swimming is a hobby he is highly enthusiastic and passionate about – which I am very pleased about as a parent. The club does not only provide him with lessons so he can learn how to swim. Better yet, it is also a place where he can chat and giggle with many of his friends from school, and make new ones along the way.

However many community clubs suffer from being over crowded and under resourced. Long waiting lists are a result of this overcrowding, in consequence clubs are in desperate need of an extra pair of hands to help out.

The sports club survey of 2013 by the Sport and Recreation Alliance, reckoned there were 151,000 sports clubs in existence across the UK. An average club has over 100 members and 24 volunteers. Which is somewhere in the region of 3.6 million volunteers helping out local sports clubs!

With participation growing at a greater rate than volunteer recruitment, now is a perfect time to find a local sports club you want to help out.

Volunteer to help the homeless

Manchester preventing homelessness
Manchester preventing homelessness

TeamKinetic is homegrown in Manchester and we see first hand the increase in homelessness on our cities streets. Deaths in relation to homelessness increased from 7 people in 2010, to 123 in Manchester by 2018. It is estimated that 2,627 people have died from rough sleeping since 2014 across the UK.

However there are opportunities that can help tackle this rising social issue. There are a number of group support networks which aim to help the homeless across many of the big cities within the UK (London, Birmingham, Liverpool). The Street Support network, or NightStop in Manchester are two examples of many that provide a gateway where prospective volunteers can help the homeless locally.

Across the local community of Manchester volunteers from networks such as NightStop can be found to be, allowing homeless people into their own homes for a night. Providing them access to: a hot shower, comfy bed, hot meal, and a friendly ear to console with. These are just some of the basic essentials volunteers are providing that we all take for granted. But can mean the world of difference to someone sleeping rough.

Act Now Not Later

Find resources below on how you can volunteer today.

Volunteer centre

Local accredited volunteer centers are everywhere but you may not have even realised it yet. There an excellent way for first time volunteers to get involved, by understanding your interests they can match you with suitable volunteering positions.

Try volunteering

TryVolunteering.com ran by TeamKinetic, encourages all people from all walks of life to get involved by volunteering. TryVolunteering.com also allows people to set up accounts as providers, providers can then advertise volunteering opportunities – but don’t worry its all FREE! The simple selfless act of kindness is only one click away, benefiting individuals and communities.

Do-it.org

Don’t just do it for yourself, do it for someone else. That’s the true motivation behind volunteering. Do-it.org connects potential volunteers to volunteering opportunities from all around the country. From 1 mile to 50 miles away from you, try Doit.org and find the opportunity that best suits you.

Charity Job

Charity Job is the UK’s largest site for charity jobs and volunteering. Thousands of positions can be found up and down the UK, no matter your location there will be something near you.

How TeamKinetic is supporting volunteers

TeamKinetic encourages communities to expand and be brought together through volunteering. Supporting any organisation which aims to allow volunteers to help make a difference. Helping organisations connect with volunteers in the simplest way possible is a problem our volunteering management software solves.

Find out more about our volunteer management software or contact one of our team members on – 0161 914 5757

milo volunteering

Introducing TeamKinetic: Milo James – The gloves are off!

By

On 9th July 2019

In News & Views

Milo Boxing (left)

For the last 7 years I’ve been surrounded by volunteers, but I have only now realised their true value in my life.

Boxing is a massive part of my life which over the last 7 years has transformed me to the man I am today.  If it wasn’t for the volunteers behind the clubs I’ve been a part of and represented, I would not be writing this blog.  I’ve learnt volunteers can be a part of many different walks of life and each unique to its own.  My personal experiences have shown me that volunteers can provide a family, a friendship, and create a sense belonging.

Education has equipped me with many skills, however I have developed further attributes from volunteers in boxing which have aided my own professional development at university these include: physical, social, team working and mental skills.  Also, I have developed key traits to my behaviour.  I am focused, hardworking and determined in learning new concepts and ideas to the best of my ability. 

entrance to the boxing club
Entrance to boxing club

Currently I am boxing from a gym in Manchester called Team Northside Boxing Club, I’ve been at this club for 2 years now.  When I reflect on my time at this club, I am overwhelmed by how much I have developed physically and mentally as a person; because of the volunteers which are behind Team Northside.  They consistently push me to reach new heights in my boxing career, and are opening a vast amount of potential for my future pathways, be that behind the pads or behind the gloves.

Education

Setting aside the boxing gloves, my educational pathway has always gravitated towards business.  I chose Public Relations and Marketing at Manchester Metropolitan University as the course opened up opportunities to engage my creative side.  Many modules I’ve completed are real-life working situations professionally developing me for a working career ahead; these have included creating PR and marketing campaigns.  I believe this will help me during my placement with TeamKinetic, as I have an idea of what will be expected from me.  Furthermore, I have developed a true self confidence from working in teams at university when completing real life scenarios. 

In addition to the boost in my confidence was gaining a placement opportunity at TeamKinetic.

“Hard work beats talent, when talent doesn’t work hard.”

A saying not only applicable to the boxing gym but real life, opportunities do not always necessarily come easy but with consistency and a lot of heart anything can be made possible.  It all depends on the determination behind the person, I will ensure I apply this philosophy during my time with TeamKinetic. 

Pass times

In my pass times I am always on a constant mission to further challenge myself by finding new interests and hobbies. Recently I’ve embarked on a new challenge to learn to play the guitar.  I’ve always had a passion for music and various music genres, it was only when I found an artist called The White Buffalo, that sparked an incentive in me to learn guitar.  Ten days in and so far so good, not sure I’ll ever be Jimmy Hendrix… but a man can dream.

On a final note

I have always had high aspirations of where I see myself in life.  I understand that my time at TeamKinetic is a crucial element to my own professional development of not only the existing skills, but the ones I am going to uncover along the way from the support of an exceedingly motivated and professional team behind me.

Milo James
Marketing Coordinator
info@teamkinetic.co.uk

Contact number: 0161 9145757

Why Do You Need Volunteer Management Software?

By

On 28th June 2019

In News & Views, Volunteer Management

Fail To Plan, Plan To Fail!

Strategy and planning is one of the most important parts in being successful regardless of you’re doing. The right software can help ensure that you stay on top of all your volunteering opportunities far more efficiently than a spreadsheet. With TeamKinetic you can have your own customised volunteering portal where you can monitor everything that is going on within your organisation and start to plan.

TeamKinetic has a whole host of features aimed at enabling your volunteer programme; reminder notifications for volunteers via text and email, automated weekly newsletters that include the volunteer’s sessions, new events and opportunities, great searching so volunteers can find the best opportunities for them, and comprehensive reports to guide your strategy.

We have organisations from many industries who all have had great success using our volunteer management software and you can find out all about how TeamKinetic works for them.

Reward To Retain

Although many volunteers do great work without expecting anything back, it would be naive to assume that giving them something in return for their efforts would not be a factor in improving retention. These incentives do not have to be large or valuable, just tokens of your appreciation which go a long way in showing that you care for the people who volunteer for you.

Retention is a running theme in a lot of successful volunteers programmes so this should be a high priority. Teamkinetic volunteer management software uses a badge reward system. There are automated badges awarded for reaching volunteer hour goals and fully customisable OpenBadges that can be awarded for any reason. This is a great way to motivate your volunteers as it will give them a sense of achievement when they reach the next badge and level.

Make Your Time More Productive

If you are solely responsible for managing the volunteers in your organisation this will take up a large chunk of your time. With TeamKinetic we aim to make the managing of volunteers as easy and as quick as possible.

TeamKinetic will give you more time for high priority tasks rather than worrying about where people are and if they’re doing the correct thing at the right time, giving you more time to plan and effect your volunteer strategy.

Video Tutorials

Our YouTube channel is packed with videos that show you the different ways we can help you and your volunteer programme.

How Can TeamKinetic Help You?

For the last 10 years TeamKinetic have been making market leading volunteer management software for hundreds of organisations in numerous industries. If you are in need of recruiting, managing and retaining both new and existing volunteers please do not hesitate to get in contact. Our expert help lines are open 9-5 Monday-Friday (0161 9145757) where any questions you have about to system can get answered. Alternatively you can send any email inquiries to info@teamkinetic.co.uk.

How to adopt digital technology into your organisation

By

On 25th June 2019

In Community, News & Views, Volunteer Management

Evidently, over the last 10-20 years, technology has made big advancements and has impacted almost everything that we do. The debate still goes on however, there are those that have really embraced it and those that want nothing to do with it at all.

Failure to innovate

Volunteer Management Software, Netflix, Blockbusters, Volunteering, Better Impact, Volunteer software, volunteer managers
Netflix Pacman eating a block busters sign

Innovation is the development of a certain value that meets a new need of your volunteers, staff, supporters. In the early 2000s Blockbusters was one of the biggest DVD rental companies in the world. But they failed to innovate and adapt, which led to their demise. Blockbusters didn’t envision a future for digital, after enormous opportunities to take over Netflix. Now, look at who’s leading the way for streaming services world wide.

Toys R Us is another example of an organisation that wasn’t willing to change due to its dominance in the market, that was until Amazon showed up!

With the browsing experience becoming digitised, most of us can find anything we are looking for on our phone from the comfort of our home. Toys R Us could have shifted to offer a fully integrated online experience but instead was left stranded with no online presence and the near-impossible task of catching up.

The take from this is that the world is changing and the third sector just as much as any private organisation will be affected. But the true lesson is small and large organisations alike need to continue to put time and budget into innovation or prepare to fail!

Why all third-sector organisations need to be using digital technology

Technology is present in everyone’s daily life, from how we get about, shop and communicate. So it’s no surprise that technology is developing the connection between volunteers and non-profit organisations.

As of June 2018, 55.1% of the world’s population had internet access. More than 3 billion people around the world now use social media each month, with 9 in 10 of those users accessing their chosen platforms via mobile devices.

So why do all third-sector organisations need to be using digital technology?

Tell your story to the world

volunteering, world wide web, volunteer management software, charity, volunteer systems, Free volunteer management,
World Wide Web image

People can’t support you if they don’t know who you are. So having a strong website is one of the most important resources organisations can have.

A website can also allow visitors to donate, view events and even volunteer for you. Implementing these functions can make it easier to develop relationships with a wider audience and increase support towards your organisation.

Having your own volunteer website allows visitors to interact with your organisation directly. A good website will communicate your mission to the world and showcase your community impact!

Don’t go extinct, get online

Volunteer management software, volunteering, volunteer management system, technology, cloud based, social media, non-profit, charity
Image of social media icons

If you’re not online, you’re pretty much non-existent. All non-profit organisations should be active on social media and engaging with hundreds of potential supporters and volunteers.

Social media can have a huge impact on non-profit organisations. Individuals can volunteer from the comfort of their homes with the use of just a mobile. A great example of this one of our international clients Humanity Road.

Humanity Road pioneered the new generation of humanitarian relief through social listening. When disaster strikes, Humanity Road helps to solve critical needs through innovative applications of technology and the power of social media!

Take advantage of cloud based software

volunteer management software, website, cloud based software, volunteering, volunteer systems, volunteer managers, sport
Cloud based software image

Often the goal for a non-profit is to achieve organisation milestones whilst keeping operating costs down. Switching to a volunteer management software may seem costly, but the reality is, IT’S NOT!

Cloud-based software can save you hundreds even thousands of pounds in the long-term. Having a SaaS (Software as a server) means you only pay for what you need and most cloud solutions scale on demand to meet changing needs.

Good cloud-based software will allow you to work from anywhere in the world as long as you have an internet connection. With more people using mobiles than ever, this on-the-go access can transform and increase opportunities amongst your team.

If you’re still unsure try our FREE volunteer management system and give your volunteer program the revamp it needs.

What TeamKinetic is doing to make a better impact

We believe that technology has the capability to change the world for good. TeamKinetic helps to build better volunteer communities by providing great tools for volunteer managers that save time, make a better impact and improve insight. Our goal is to make volunteering easy for everyone no matter what. But don’t take our word for it, why not check out our customer review

For more information on volunteer management software visit our website or contact one of our team members on – 0161 914 5747

The impact of volunteers on England Lacrosse and its players

By

On 7th June 2019

In Community, News & Views

TeamKinetic recently got to the chance to chat with Daniel Eckersall on his preparation for the upcoming world indoor lacrosse championships held in Canada.

Get to know a little background to how he got started and the impact volunteers have had on Lacrosse as a sport and the players involved.

volunteering, TeamKinetic, Lacrosse, Volunteer management software, managing volunteers, sport, Better Impact, Events, Better Impact
Daniel Eckersall with his Team mates

A little bit about Daniel

Daniel started to learn and play the game of field Lacrosse at Cheadle Lacrosse club, he later made the move to play for Stockport. He has been playing Lacrosse for the last 7 years and only getting better!

During this time he has won the junior Flags and league multiple times whilst also competing in Ghent where Stockport were crowned European champions twice. Daniel has also had the honour of leading the North West side to a plate victory in 2018. More recently he has captained his side to win the cup at the Nick Kehoe Invitational.

Dan was introduced to Box Lacrosse when he played for Heaton Hornets in the 2015 Tasko cup and later joined the London Knights. His success led to being selected to represent England at the Ebox before being selected for the upcoming World Indoor Lacrosse Championships.

TeamKinetic, volunteering, volunteer management software, sport, events, volunteer, England
Daniel going for goal

Creating an impact

What impact have volunteers had on lacrosse and its success

Lacrosse in the UK would cease to exist if it wasn’t for the help and dedication of volunteers, whether that be at the grassroots level or the elite international lacrosse level; coaching, refereeing, transporting and everything else which goes on behind the scenes to keep any sports club running.

Our success as a nation has been built on volunteers dedicating their time and lives to help the sport grow nationwide. This has resulted in England lacrosse winning gold at previous European championships at field and ranking as the 5th highest nation in Indoor.

What you hope to achieve at the world champs?

My aim for the world championships this September is to maintain that top 5 position in the world and hopefully push that up to an even higher ranking. As an offensive player, there is the added pressure to make this happen but I’m looking forward to the challenge!

How do you hope to use your success as a way of motivating younger players to do the same?

My success as a player has come from having great coaches who volunteer their time to develop this great sport even further.

Having the privilege of representing England this September has given me a passion for helping develop this sport even further. Using the success from this I aim to carry on supporting and helping out at events and junior training sessions.

I want to help improve the next generation of Box Lacrosse players so that they can come away with the same experiences I’ve had the pleasure of being part of. It would be great to see them wear the England jersey and play alongside the best in the world themselves!

Lacrosse, volunteering, sport, volunteer management software, managing volunteers, England, TeamKinetic, Events
Daniel walking to the pitch in his London Knights kit

Support

With a 23 man squad travelling out to Vancouver in September to represent England in the World Indoor Lacrosse Championships, funding is required to cover the cost of their trip.

Unfortunately, due to the nature and popularity of the sport in the UK each player is expected to fund all aspects of this privilege from; Entry fee, travel, accommodation, playing kit, off pitch England, branded clothing etc. which has been estimated at around £2,500 each player.

The team has had a lot of success in the past and they hope to capitalise on that during the world championships. Any support would be greatly appreciated and would go a long way!

Here is a link to their MyDonate page where you can help the team achieve the fundraising target and ensure the longevity of the fantastic sport!

Lacrosse, England, volunteering, sport, volunteer management software, volunteer system
England Lacrosshe logo

For more information on how TeamKinetic can assist with your volunteer management and getting the best out of all your volunteers visit our website or contact them on – 0161 914 5757

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