I RECENTLY began volunteering at Tavistock Wharf. In my position of unemployment it is important to be proactive and take on new opportunities as they present themselves to show determination and continual progression of skills. I've discovered at Tavistock's Wharf I can do all this while having fun and learning at the same time! When I came along last Monday to assist Dr Ann Pulsford at the Friends of the Wharf Lunchtime Lectures I formed some great first impressions. Being based in Plymouth, it was my first time to The Wharf but I left feeling as though I had been going there for years. The welcome I received and personable nature of every one of the staff was fantastic, to the point where I felt I'd been welcomed into an extended family. The Wharf itself is also a great space. In my line of work, marine conservation and community engagement, I regularly perform public or school events, visiting different places and having to adapt to different work settings. Hence, I immediately saw the appeal of The Wharf as an informal engagement space for people of all ages and the scope of what it could provide for the local community. This was reflected in the staff and visitors that I met on the day. I began volunteering to develop particular skills but can already see that I will gain more than I expected. From promotion and press releases to public interaction and networking I am confident that my time here will be simultaneously beneficial to my work and personal life as well as rewarding, by delivering a service to the community. With the added bonus of broadening my knowledge via the varied talks programme, it's safe to say that I shall definitely be returning and continuing to volunteer at the Lunchtime Lectures. I look forward to seeing you there soon! Emily Miles Wharf volunteer