As part of Volunteers’ Week, we’re celebrating the inspiring journeys of the incredible people who give their time to support others. Today, we’re shining a light on Tracy Stewart, whose story is one of growth, resilience, and giving back.
From support to supporting others
Tracy’s journey with volunteering began from a deeply personal place. Having benefitted from counselling services herself, she felt inspired to give something back.
“I benefitted from the counselling service and wanted to give something back.”
Tracy began her volunteering journey as a peer mentor, offering guidance and encouragement to others. Since then, her role has evolved significantly, she is now a trainee counsellor on placement, supporting clients as they navigate their own challenges.
Reflecting on her experience, Tracy says choosing a single favourite moment is impossible:
“There are too many to choose one.”
What stands out most to her is the rewarding experience of walking alongside others as they grow:
“Being alongside clients and course participants as they gain self-awareness and confidence.”
Building confidence and skills
Through volunteering, Tracy has developed a range of valuable skills and discovered new opportunities she hadn’t imagined before. From supporting others in courses to even co-facilitating sessions, her confidence has grown tremendously.
“Volunteering at You Trust has provided me with opportunities I wouldn’t have had… my increased confidence has also helped me to pursue a new career.”
Tracy is now nearing the end of her training to become a qualified counsellor. A powerful testament to how volunteering can open doors and inspire new directions.
A journey to be proud of
When asked what she’s most proud of, Tracy reflects on just how far she’s come:
“Seeing how far I have come since being a client of the service.”
Her journey can be summed up in her own words:
“From counselling client to peer mentor to trainee counsellor in 3 years.”
Three words that define volunteering
For Tracy, volunteering is:
Rewarding. Supportive. Growth.
A message to future volunteers
For anyone considering volunteering, Tracy has a simple but powerful message:
“You will gain more than you can imagine and definitely more than you give.”
Tracy’s story reminds us that volunteering is not just about giving time. It’s about transformation, connection, and growth. This Volunteers’ Week, we celebrate Tracy and all the volunteers who make a difference every day.
