Sayed - Funding Information and Research Volunteer

Sayed joined the Community Impact Bucks team through Volunteer Bucks as a funding Information and Research Volunteer to help identify vital funds for local organisations across Buckinghamshire.

How did you find the role and what was your experience using Volunteer Bucks?

I was looking for a meaningful way to volunteer locally and found the Volunteer Bucks platform online. I was motivated to use it because it clearly showed skilled roles where I could genuinely contribute.

My experience with Volunteer Bucks has been very positive. I haven't faced any challenges with using it. The platform made it easy to find a volunteering role that matched my skills and interests. It was simple to use and the information was clear.

What is your volunteer roles and what does it involve?

I am a Funding Research Volunteer and have been volunteering in this role since May 2025. My main task is to find and research different grants and funding opportunities that are available to charities and community groups in Buckinghamshire. I then write clear and simple summaries about these funds for the team at Community Impact Bucks to use in newsletters and to support organisations.

Why do you volunteer?

Personally, I feel satisfied knowing I am helping my local community in a practical way. I understand how important funding is for charities to run their services, and I like knowing that my work helps them find the support they need.

Professionally, I am improving my research, analytical, and written communications skills which are useful in many careers.

What attracted you to this role?

I was attracted to this role because it fits my skillset. I can make use of my attention to detail and clear communication skills.

Helping charities understand complex funding information and find suitable opportunities is also very meaningful to me.

What were the best and most challenging parts of this role?

The best part if the sense of purpose. When I find a funding opportunity that matches a local charity's work, I know my research can make a real difference. I enjoy turning complicated guidelines into simple and useful notes.

On the other hand, sometimes funding criteria are very detailed and change often. Making sure my research is accurate and up to date requires careful concentration, but this is important to do because charities rely on this information.

What difference does this role make?

For me, this role, and volunteering in general, makes me feel connected and useful. It gives me a structured way to use my skills to support the community, which is very rewarding.

For charities, community groups, and other not-for-profit organisations, who are often very busy, my research helps save time. By providing clear and accurate funding information, I help make it easier for them to apply for funding and focus on their important work supporting people in Buckinghamshire.

Would you recommend volunteering if so, why?

Yes, I would definitely recommend volunteering. It helps meet new people, learn new skills, and use your existing experience to make a positive difference in the community.

I would like to thank Community Impact Bucks for giving me this opportunity. The role is intellectually engaging and allows me to see a direct link between my work and supporting charities and community groups in Buckinghamshire.

Further information:

• Find other opportunities available with Community Impact Bucks
• Search for more volunteering opportunities available on Volunteer Bucks
• Not sure which volunteering role might be right for you? Try out our Volunteer Quiz to see what best matches your skills and interests
• Are you an organisation looking for funding support? Visit the Community Impact Bucks website or complete a Request for Support Form to schedule a one-to-one support session with a member of the team