Volunteer Counsellor Craig

Craig is one of our incredible volunteer counsellors. Read about what it means to him:

How did you first get involved with YMCA Wimbledon, and what inspired you to volunteer? 

I initially got involved with YMCA Wimbledon for somewhat selfish reasons—I needed a placement to begin accumulating client hours as part of my psychotherapy training. A friend suggested the YMCA, and that’s where my journey began. 

However, my inspiration to continue volunteering is deeply personal and tied to my own recovery from addiction. I spent the last five years of my using as an intravenous crystal meth addict, which led me to a dark moment: standing on a train platform, contemplating whether to jump. I was overwhelmed with shame and a desperate desire to escape who I had become—a far cry from the dreams I had when I first went to university. Addiction left me HIV positive, unemployable, and stripped of my self-esteem and self-worth. 

Today, my motivation is simple: I want to help those who find themselves at their own crossroads, feeling trapped, lost, or simply yearning for change. 

Can you share a memorable moment or experience from your time volunteering? 

One of the most powerful aspects of my role as a volunteer counsellor is the privilege of sitting with someone as they share their story. Often, they are revealing deeply painful experiences for the first time. Being able to metaphorically hold that space for them is incredibly humbling. It’s a reminder of my own journey in recovery and the shared humanity that connects us all in our struggles and triumphs. 

What has volunteering at YMCA Wimbledon taught you or brought to your life? 

Volunteering at YMCA Wimbledon has enriched my life in countless ways. My clients have taught me resilience and shown me how quickly life can change, often through no fault of our own. I’ve learned that anyone can find themselves in circumstances they never imagined, with the rug pulled out from under their feet. 

My time at YMCA has profoundly changed my perspective on homelessness and deepened my appreciation for the incredible work this organization does. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to be part of it and look forward to my time volunteering each week. 

How do you feel about being part of the YMCA Wimbledon community, especially as we celebrate 150 years? 

Being part of the YMCA Wimbledon community, especially as we mark 150 years, is both humbling and fulfilling. I often feel like a small cog in a much larger wheel, yet it’s a community where every contribution, no matter how small, matters. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to be here, and I hope my voice can positively reflect the profound impact volunteering has on individuals like me. 

What message would you like to share with others who are considering volunteering? 

Volunteering doesn’t just change the lives of those you help—it transforms your own. You might start out thinking you’re giving your time, but you receive so much more in return. I’ve learned more about myself through this journey than I ever thought possible, and I’ve been inspired by the dedication of my fellow volunteers and the unwavering support from YMCA staff. This place feels like home, and I encourage anyone considering volunteering to take the leap. You’ll find a community that welcomes you and an experience that enriches your life beyond measure.