Tools For Solidarity is an organisation run entirely by volunteers. Hence, we are intent on promoting volunteering. There are two core volunteers in Belfast ‘the magical Wood Brothers’ John and Stephen – and our former volunteer in Downpatrick – Chris.
There are several ways to become a local volunteer in our organisation
1. We work with local supported volunteers. The TFS’ initiative became real in 1992 and successfully help people with fewer opportunities every day. You can read more about that programme on our website.
2. Aside from it, we’re always open to local people and communities. We provide opportunities to people in Northern Ireland to participate in worthwhile and valuable work. Thus, if you are from Belfast (or anywhere in NI), just give us a call or contact us directly or through Volunteer Now.
“I’ve been volunteering with Tools for Solidarity since 2005. My social worker addressed me to the organisation as a part of a rehabilitation programme after an illness I suffered.
Here I deal mainly with tools sorting, I also do some consultancy work and manufacture tools or machine parts if required. What I like about Tools for Solidarity is that we manage to give a new life to tools that people dump and make them of use for someone new. I do regret not to be able to spend more time here!”
Peter, Belfast
“I got involved with TFS in December 2010, it’s the best organisation you could hear of plus is next to my house! Here I fix tools, make boxes, tidy up a lot. The positive side of this experience is that it gets me to do practical work and to learn new skills, on the other hand we do have too many meetings and sub-group meetings.”
Louis, Belfast
“I started volunteering with TFS because I like to work with my hands and I don’t have so much money that I could give, so I decided to give my time. My main work is to manage and coordinate the workshop in Downpatrick. I like the fact that we refurbish and reuse tools and sewing machines that others thrown away. I especially like to work with people here. Unfortunately we do struggle to find funding.”
Chris, Downpatrick