Volunteering
Why volunteer?
Volunteering and service to others is an essential aspect of Christian ethos. We encourage a spirit of respect for each and every individual, and a greater awareness of the needs of others.
We organise regular visits to care homes and to the elderly in the local area and visits to soup kitchens, as well as helping the homeless. Our social projects have also taken us as far afield as Portugal, Mexico and Greece.
“I have really enjoyed volunteering with Hillcrest. It’s a chance to help others and be a role model.
— Tija, aged 15
Library Buddies
Library Buddies is a volunteering project Hillcrest is running in collaboration with the Croydon Central Library. Hillcrest girls volunteer their time on Saturday mornings to help children improve their love for reading and literacy skills.
Library Buddies is a great opportunity for girls to volunteer, sharing their love of reading and developing children’s literacy skills. They will develop skills and virtues in organisation, communication, leadership and teamwork. As well as exercising responsibility and project management. Most importantly, they will have the reward of helping local children develop their reading habits!
Youth Encounter Summer (YES) Camp
In Summer, girls are encouraged to take part in the YES camp organised by Ashley Club, Manchester. Through volunteering and cultural exchange with other participants from abroad, they develop communication and leadership skills. They also get to enjoy sports and trips in the neighbouring areas.
Social Project in Greece
Since 2016, except during the pandemic, we have been running a social project in Athens working with refugees, adults and minors from Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan and Iran who seek refuge in Greece.
This project has enabled young people to be aware of the needs of others and develop the cultural understanding of the world and peoples of different backgrounds.