From Individual Stories to Citywide Impact: Why Volunteering Matters in Aberdeen

It was absolutely fantastic this month to hear from four local volunteers in our Why We Volunteer feature on Ruthrieston Community Centre. The article and interview videos produced by our Comms team really brought their experiences to life. There is something genuinely powerful about hearing directly from volunteers – it not only inspires others to get involved, it also gives us real insight into the many motivations behind why people choose to give their time.

What I found particularly encouraging was the variety of reasons people shared. For some, volunteering is a way of giving back to a community that has welcomed them. For others, it’s about staying active and connected, building confidence, gaining new skills, or improving employment prospects. And sometimes it’s as simple – and as important – as wanting to meet people and feel part of something positive.

Across every conversation, however, there was a clear and unmistakable theme: a desire to contribute to the community.

That spirit of contribution runs right across Aberdeen. According to the latest Scottish Household Survey, 30% of adults in Aberdeen take part in formal volunteering – above the national average – and when informal volunteering is included, that figure rises to 51%. That is a tremendous endorse-ment of the generosity and civic pride that exists across our city. Alongside that, volunteers contribute an astonishing 6.6 million hours of support every year in Aberdeen.

It is a remarkable commitment from people of all ages and backgrounds. It is no exaggeration to say that without volunteers, many local organisations simply would not exist. From community centres and sports clubs to charities and support groups, volunteers are the backbone of the third sector. They welcome visitors, organise activities, serve on committees, manage communications, and provide hands-on support. Quite simply, they keep the doors open and ensure vital services continue week after week.

But the benefits of volunteering are not one sided. Far from it.

Time and again, we hear that volunteering helps people grow in confidence, develop practical and transferable skills, and build meaningful friendships. It can support mental wellbeing, reduce isolation and provide a renewed sense of purpose. For students and jobseekers, it offers valuable experience and a chance to demonstrate commitment and initiative. For those later in life, it provides structure, connection and the opportunity to continue making a difference.

Volunteering allows people to discover talents they didn’t know they had. It challenges us in marvellous ways and reminds us that we all have something worthwhile to offer.

There is also a significant economic dimension. In Aberdeen, there is a social return of £14.12 for every £1 invested in volunteering. That is a phenomenal return and a powerful reminder that volunteering is not only good for individuals and communities – it makes strong economic and social sense too.

When we reflect on the stories from Ruthrieston Community Centre, we see all of this brought together marvellously. A historic community space sustained not just by funding and forward planning, but by the commitment, warmth and creativity of volunteers who show up each week ready to make a difference. It is a fantastic example of community in action.

Volunteering is fabulous for personal growth, tremendous for community resilience and absolutely vital to the continued success of so many organisations across the City. Aberdeen is stronger because of its volunteers. That is something truly fantastic – and something we should never take for granted.

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Want to get involved and make a difference?

If you’re interested in volunteering, visit Volunteer Aberdeen to explore the latest opportunities in your community. Organisations can also submit opportunities, visit volunteeraberdeen.org.uk for further details.

Stay informed with ACVO’s So Why Don’t You... programme on SHMU Community Radio, broadcast live every Friday from 2 to 3 pm. Episodes are also available on demand at acvo.org.uk/sowhydontyou.

If you’re aged 11-25, ACVO coordinates the Saltire Awards locally - recognising young volunteers for 10, 25, 50, 100, 200, and 500 hours of service. Find info and get involved at saltireawards.scot.

Join ACVO and over 200 Scottish organisations as a Volunteer Charter Champion by pledging support at volunteerscotland.net.

For info on the Volunteering Action Plan for Scotland, involvement opportunities, and volunteer recruitment tips, volunteeringactionplan.co.uk.

As always, feel free to get in touch with me if you have any questions around volunteering at mike.melvin@acvo.org.uk

Get involved: Volunteer in Aberdeen!

There are hundreds of different ways you can give your time as a volunteer in Aberdeen! The great thing about volunteering is that it is so inclusive, no matter your experience, time you have to give or age, there is a volunteer opportunity to suit you and an organisation in Aberdeen that would really value your contribution.

Have a look below at some of our recently added opportunities and discover how you can make a big difference in your local community!