Where Did We Come From? 
Youth Leading the Way (YLW) was realised thanks to the work of the Getting Youth Involved project, which looked at how to involve more young people in volunteering. The group found that young people want to volunteer but are unsure how to do it and felt that young people were not made to feel welcome whilst volunteering. They also wanted some form of support and the group decided this would be best provided by another young person and so we created Youth Leading the Way.
We were awarded 3 years funding from the Big Lottery Fund and used this to achieve our goals of involving young people in volunteering and helping them to become confident and responsible citizens who feel part of their community.
‘Getting Youth Involved meant that young people got a say in what we wanted Youth Leading the Way to do’ Andrew aged 15.
What We’re About
Ever wanted to volunteer but felt unsure about how to do it?
Well we’ve got it covered!
We’ve trained Volunteer Mentors the same age as you who want to support you in achieving something new.
If you’re aged 14 – 25 and live, work or go to school/college in East Dunbartonshire then you’re in!
‘My Mentor went with me the first time I volunteered and it made me feel more comfortable and helped with anything I felt unsure about. As time has gone on I have became more confident and also my timekeeping has improved. Volunteering has been great! Allison aged 18’.
You Can Do Loads
Get your hands dirty with conservation opportunities
Have fun as a group leader with children’s clubs
Look after others as a First Aider at gigs and sport events
‘Just because you are working for free doesn’t mean you are working for nothing’, Anthony aged 22.
Get Recognised
The Volunteer Centre will also reward your efforts with the MV Awards.
This is a free National Award from the Scottish Government and you can be proud to achieve it.
There are awards for 50, 100 and 200 hours of volunteering. Get in!
‘Awards just for giving your time? Get in’! Kris aged 15