What can I get from volunteering?

I joined Mary’s Meals as a volunteer in May 2025, having always wanted to be involved with a charity. But as a busy third-year university student with a part-time job, I believed it was impossible. Then, the calling arrived.  

In April 2025, my mother sent a message about a fantastic charity she had been introduced to during Mass and believed was meant for me. Reflecting now, I am grateful my mum encouraged me to be part of this wonderful family. I fell in love with the international school feeding charity and bought the book ‘Give’ by Mary’s Meals Founder Magnus MacFarlane-Barrow. I felt called to become a volunteer.  

I understand how difficult it is for people, especially students, to give their free time, and I was in the same position. It was only after starting my volunteer journey I truly understood the time I gave to charity wasn’t lost; it was time given to children who needed it most. Church talks aren’t just church talks; they feed children. Fundraising isn’t just fundraising; it’s supporting dreams. Volunteering isn’t just about giving back; it’s about enriching your life. I found purpose and decided to dedicate my time, even if only a little, to helping Mary’s Meals feed children. I have also been a child, and thinking many children can only dream of the opportunities I had makes me more passionate about Mary’s Meals’ mission.

‘What can I get from volunteering?’: everything. Volunteering gives the opportunity to contribute to a larger mission, the possibility to meet like-minded people, the chance to improve your academic and professional skills, and a sense of accomplishment.  

Being a student is challenging: sleepless nights, long assignments, and early-morning lectures. But if we can find a little time to give to charity, our lives can change, and in the process, we can help change the lives of hungry children. Looking at pictures of smiling children you have supported and helped is a feeling hard to put into words. If you want to change your life and that of millions of children, join Mary’s Meals and take part in a mission you will never forget.

Alessandra Cavaliere