Daniel Ciarrocchi is Associate at Linklaters LLP. Daniel tells us about his belief that there is nobody that you cannot learn from, meaning that volunteering is a rewarding experience for all parties involved. Daniel also explains that volunteering helps him to learn how to function in a new environment and gain confidence.

Why do you volunteer?
I believe there is no one you can’t learn from! I like to listen to people’s stories, understand their perspective and share their aspirations. Thanks to ELBA and its EVOLVE project, I had the chance to meet passionate charity founders, help them set the priorities and build business plans for their charities.

I volunteer because I enjoy applying my knowledge and skills outside of the corporate world and putting them at the service of people that aim to make a tangible and meaningful impact. I am aware that even the most driven people can experience a setback or be in need to start over, and I know how important it is to find someone that is ready to listen and lend a helping hand. Trying to be that person is the reason why I volunteer!

What have you gained from your volunteering experience?
I met inspiring people who dedicate their lives to the third sector and want to make a difference in the east London community. While spending time with them, I was reminded that a single and simple idea can have a tremendous impact, especially for people in need of our help!

I worked closely with more experienced volunteers, each coming from different industries and bringing their personal expertise. Looking at them in action and following their example, I learned how to approach problems from different angles and use new strategies and techniques. Most importantly I learned how to function in a new environment and gained confidence by solving problems and dealing with situations that I have never faced before.

Would you recommend volunteering to a colleague and, if so, why?
Definitely! Volunteering is not only about gaining valuable experience outside of the corporate world, expanding the network or broadening the perspectives, but also about making a direct impact on and feeling part of the community.

Volunteering through ELBA is extremely simple and efficient. They have many opportunities available and make it extremely easy to find the right one and sign up for it. As a new volunteer, I received clear instructions, and I was guided throughout the whole process.