Robbie Collins, Winner of the 2005
Young Volunteer of the Year Award

Volunteering helped Robbie put his life firmly back on track after enduring a long-term illness. He says “I was very pleased to have been nominated but I never expected to win it.”

Robbie volunteered on the Prince’s Trust programme, redeveloping a school eco-garden and a village hall. He has since gone on to become the Assistant Team Leader for the current programme and it is his aim to be there for the next one as well. Many of the participants come from challenging/adverse backgrounds and Robbie’s task is to assist them in their own personal development, potentially making a huge contribution to reshaping their lives.

Robbie has now completed training as an Advocate and will soon be supporting someone with a learning difficulty. Robbie says “Volunteering has been an experience. I’m more confident now. It’s good to know I’m doing something worthwhile. I would definitely recommend volunteering to other young people. You don’t need to be paid for something to make it worthwhile.”