2025 is here, and you want to try something new! But where can you start …?
The start of the New Year is a time when many of us are looking forward to what the year ahead might have in store, and trying something new. Volunteering is a great way to tap into new interests, or set time aside for something you’re passionate about. Here at Voluntary Action Coventry, we see a surge in volunteering enquiries at this time of year, with people wanting to find out how they can get involved with their community but not sure how to match their interests and availability with the organisations that need them. Thanks to our new community engagement platform, Get Involved Coventry, we’ve got you covered!
We talked to Natasha De Jonghe, founder of RE(YOU)S CIC, who has been explaining how Get Involved Coventry helped her find the crew she needed to deliver a very special and wonderful event. Back in Autumn, RE(YOU)S CIC wanted to hold an event that would bring together their community but with a short amount of time to deliver the activity, she knew that many hands would make light work. Natasha explains:
“In December, we hosted our first-ever Christmas event—RE(YOU)S YOUR CHRISTMAS—a celebration of community, creativity, and collaboration. Held during the festive season, this event created an inclusive space for families to share, connect, and enjoy activities together. The day included a token-based exchange system of seasonal essentials and creative workshops, COGS Refiliables, and the much-loved Coventry Repair Cafe designed to unite people and highlight collective action’s power.”
With just weeks to organise, we turned to the Voluntary Action Coventry Get Involved Coventry platform, which became an essential partner in making the event a reality. The platform is easy to use, intuitive, and even accessible on the go—making it simple to post roles and connect with volunteers, no matter how busy you are.
We recruited 11 incredible new volunteers through the platform who brought fresh energy, skills, and enthusiasm to the event. These volunteers joined forces with our existing dedicated volunteers, creating a dream team that worked tirelessly to make the day successful. From welcoming attendees and managing the kitchen to capturing moments through photography and assisting with setup and breakdown, their combined efforts ensured every detail was handled with care.
Whether new or long-standing, each volunteer brought something special to the event. From the warm smiles at the door to the hands-on teamwork behind the scenes, their passion and commitment transformed the event into something truly magical. The collaboration between our existing team and the enthusiastic newcomers showcased what can happen when people come together to make a difference.
The Get Involved Coventry platform was vital in connecting us with individuals who shared our vision. At the same time, our existing volunteers provided the foundation of experience and dedication that held everything together. Together, they created a community celebration that wasn’t just about exchanging items—it was about building connections, sharing stories, and demonstrating the power of collaboration.
Pictured above (L) the cheerful kitchen team keeping the event running smoothly ensuring everyone stayed fuelled for the festivities and (R) guests with stallholders browsing treats and gifts
How can you get involved with your community in Coventry?
Whatever your starting point is, this platform is for anyone who is involved in community action, who is committed to improving the quality of life for residents in the city and sees value in contributing to the social economy. If this chimes with you, then you need to create a profile.
To explore the specific benefits for your sector of this free-to-join platform, select your area here:
