Hello from JVC’s new Programme Manager CLARE LEWIS

After just one month officially in my new post at JVC, I have to admit I’m still working out which end is up, but finding out is a very exciting process!

Before JVC, I had quite a varied experience, which included running my own business, teaching, working as a volunteer and volunteer manager with other charities, and quite a lot of press and publicity work. I’m pretty sure I will be using most of the skills I’ve gained so far in running JVC.

I was able to join Marie, Austeja and this year’s group of volunteers for most of Orientation in September, and found it an inspiring event. We have a great bunch of people, and it’s a privilege for all of the staff team to be supporting them during their journey this year.

I’ve already been entertained by the Birmingham and Liverpool communities, and I’m looking forward to visiting the Manchester community soon. I’ve also visited some of the placements where our JVC volunteers are working, and it’s really heartening to see the work that’s being done to make people’s lives fairer, happier and more inclusive.

I was attracted to JVC by the opportunity to try to live and work by its values, and I passionately believe that JVC can change the world one person at a time. In a comfortable society like Britain, too many of us are ignorant of the injustice, poverty and exclusion right on our doorstep. JVC opens our eyes to this, lets us see just what life is like for those who are marginalised, and enables us to do something about it – in volunteer work during the programme, and by a lifelong change in attitude after JVC.

The staff team really wants JVC Britain to grow, and we’d appreciate the help of Holy Joe readers in spreading the word about the programme, helping us to find opportunities to talk to groups who may be interested in joining us, and offering to help us promote it, perhaps by sending us articles or photos.

We’re here and waiting for your response!