Meet Will Franklin

Will has been brightening Tuesday mornings at Ozanam House since the day before Christmas. What began as helping in the kitchen, washing dishes, and serving lunch to community members has grown into something much more meaningful creating smoothies, connecting with service users, and becoming part of a caring community.  

 As a second-year social work student, volunteering originally felt like a practical step toward gaining industry experience. But it quickly became more than just building skills for the future.  

“I genuinely enjoy coming in each week,” Will shares. “The staff are welcoming, the environment feels supportive, and there’s real satisfaction in helping people in need.”  

 One of the biggest highlights has been helping run the Tuesday morning smoothie program. From experimenting with different ingredients to seeing clients’ faces light up with each new creation, the experience has given Will moments of genuine joy and connection. Working collaboratively with others and contributing ideas has made the role both creative and rewarding.  

 Beyond the practical experience, volunteering at Ozanam House has also provided valuable lessons in professional practice. Observing experienced staff navigate challenging situations with both compassion and confidence has been eye-opening. Learning how to balance assertiveness with empathy has offered important preparation for a future career in social work.  

 Most importantly, the experience has created a strong sense of belonging. Being surrounded by friendly staff, volunteers, and community members has turned Tuesday mornings into something Will genuinely looks forward to each week.  

For anyone considering volunteering, Will’s advice is simple: “Definitely do it. The people are lovely, the community is welcoming, and even small acts of kindness can make a real difference.”