Volunteering is a cornerstone of community connection, a way to give back and make a difference. But every once in a while, we get a request so out of the ordinary that it leaves us scratching our heads, laughing out loud, or saying, "Well, that's a first!". At Volunteer Marlborough, we've had our share of unusual or unexpected requests over the years. So, we thought we'd share a few of the weirdest or funniest ones we've encountered - and what we learned from them.
Bubble Wrap Enthusiasts
A group preparing for an art installation involving some fragile materials requested some volunteers to spend hours - and we mean hours - cutting, wrapping, and securing items in bubble wrap. The task, though mundane, attracted a surprising number of people who found the activity oddly satisfying.
The lesson? Even the most repetitive jobs can find willing hands when framed the right way.
The Treasure Map Cartographer
A local child-focused organisation wanted help creating a 'treasure map' for children. The role involved brainstorming clues, sketching out a map, and even 'testing' the scavenger hunt. Volunteers with artistic flair and a sense of adventure jumped at the chance to bring this imaginative project to life.
The Lost-and-Found Detective
An event organiser once requested volunteers to sift through a mountain of lost property items collected during a weekend event. The role involved cataloguing the items, attempting to trace their owners, and even making creative social media posts to reunite people with their belongings. While it seemed tedious at first, volunteers turned it into a fun scavenger hunt!
The Chicken Whisperer
A local rescue group once contacted us looking for volunteers to 'socialise' rescued chickens. They wanted to ensure the birds were comfortable around humans before being rehomed. It turns out that sitting quietly in a coop and talking to chickens is surprisingly therapeutic! This quirky task ended up being a hit among volunteers who enjoyed animal interaction in a low-pressure environment.
So what have we learned?
Though these requests may seem odd, they taught us to keep an open mind and embrace creativity in volunteering. They also reminded us of the diverse ways that people can contribute to their communities. From bubble wrap to chicken whispering, these stories highlight the quirky, wonderful world of volunteering.
Have you encountered any unusual or memorable volunteer opportunities? Get in touch with us, we'd love to hear about them!