Philip Singh - Volunteer Manager with Countryside Services
Philip Singh from Calderdale says he would not be where he is today without volunteering.
He describes how being a volunteer for Calderdale Council helped to transform his life.
"After finishing my degree in Zoology, I could not work for a long time due to ill health. When I had recovered, I started volunteering with the Council's Countryside and Woodlands team. It was as a way to regain a sense of normality and get back into working life.
I always wanted to work in countryside management and that is where my skills are. I helped out with a range of tasks like planting trees, building bridges and managing habitats. It really built my confidence and gave me valuable work experience. I also met lots of new people and kept myself fit.
A year later, I applied for a job at the Council as Volunteer Co-ordinator for the Countryside and Woodlands team. I was thrilled to get the job! I would not be where I am today if it was not for the skills I developed while volunteering.
I am currently managing about 70 volunteers, who do lots of great work to help keep Calderdale so beautiful. We always welcome more volunteers from all backgrounds."
Lloyds Banking Group
Calderdale Council services regularly host groups of volunteers from local businesses.
Lloyds Banking Group told us about their experience in May 2016.
Well, what a fun day the Retail Cost Management Team had at Manor Heath Park in Halifax.
It was a splendidly sunny day to be washing down walls and painting the old rugby changing rooms at the top of the park. These rooms are used many by local teams. It was great to see the place freshened up and the difference we made.
Manor Heath Park is an incredibly pretty park on the edge of Halifax. It also has a wonderful garden section with greenhouses full of plants. These supply central Halifax with various floral displays and hanging baskets.
A fruitful and fun day!