“I had never come across such an interesting initiative, I remember describing it to my parents as ‘a shark tank-style community focused (and not commercial) project funding panel presentations led by youth groups in the North-East of England’. It was an opportunity to meet and engage with people with creative ideas and becoming a small part in journeys of their community projects – and I immediately knew I wanted to be a part of the organisation.”

“I came across The Key through the student volunteering department at my University. I once travelled to Alnmouth to attend a panel, and I remember that day as one of my most cherished memories during my undergraduate degree. This visit allowed me to experience first-hand the impact that The Key was creating in under-served areas in the North-East of England – youth communities facing social and other barriers in life were being able to utilise their early life experiences to produce something positive not just for themselves but their communities at large.

I also got to meet one of the kindest and most supportive teachers (who are known as facilitators at The Key) – who was determined to ensure that their students receive the best opportunities to grow in the most supportive environments. It has been one of the most wholesome panels I have attended amongst several other brilliant ones.”

“It was a pitch I attended by a group of young carers involved with Newcastle Carers. What was memorable about it was the professionalism and transparency with which the pitch was presented. From equal division of work between members, to the clarity in the PowerPoint presentation which included a safety and legality slide as well as giving the panel members a taste of the activities planned for their event (my co-panel member and I tried our hand at darts and a ball game!) – has definitely helped me remember it as one of the best, most memorable panels I have attended.”

“One of the best parts of volunteering is seeing a group whose pitch you attended at stage 1, moving onto the next stages. It has also been an absolute pleasure meeting like-minded individuals who believe in support that inspires growth.”

Shivangi’s commitment to The Key is a brilliant example of the impact volunteers can have. From supporting young people to seeing projects develop over time, her enthusiasm and dedication have made her a valued part of our volunteer community.

Thank you for everything you bring to The Key!

Are you inspired by Shivangi's experience? Want to use your time, skills and passion to support young people? Learn more and sign up to volunteer here: https://thekeyuk.org/latest/volunteering-with-the-key/