Youth Training Programme Begins
27th April 2009
CSV's new ReFresh training scheme, to encourage the latest batch of youth leaders, began with a bang on the 25th and 26th April. Jon Dean, a full-time CSV volunteer with Agents4Change, was one of those who took part.
Milton Keynes may not sound like an inspiring place for 20 young people to learn new skills, but I can honestly say we all walked away pleased and inspired, with a new group of friends to move forward with.
Throughout a hectic yet entertaining Saturday schedule, all of us were given the necessary qualifications to ably and safely provide first aid to our friends, our colleagues, and those volunteering with us at Cathedral Camps. It may not be particularly appealing giving CPR to an over used dummy, but all of us were prepared to put our squeamishness aside
CSV's own Peter Seaden-Jones spent Sunday guiding us through the characteristics of what makes a good leader, and with his affable approach managed to get us to open up about our qualities and our shortcomings. He planted lots of seeds in how to inspire young people, and to get fun and effective results.
I've been a volunteer coordinator for approaching a year, setting up projects for young projects to participate in. This weekend has invigorated my leadership style, and importantly given me the confidence to respond quickly to medical emergencies, important skills which need to be spread out amongst young people. If we save just one life, it'll be worth it.
The weekend promised to be a great opportunity; the chance to meet like minded, driven young people, who care deeply about their communities and want to be prepared to lead others. Everyone at the session came from a different background, but we all care deeply about our volunteering, and think ReFresh will enable us to lead others in donating their time successfully.
ReFresh training weekends continue throughout 2009, and thanks must go to Rebecca Wilkinson for her hard work in putting these events together.
For more information about the training programme visit the webpage or contact Rebecca Wilkinson
