Struan Burch, Young Volunteer
This case study is a wonderful story of how young people can benefit from volunteering, and the lengths that they will go to help out. A wee bit of spare time and an enthusiasm for the outdoors helped Struan on his way.
Read his story below.
I wanted to volunteer with Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park because as a kid I spent most of my time in the outdoors and loved every moment of it. When I left school, I decided to go on a gap year and during this time I decided I’d like to spend my time in the outdoors doing something different.
Discovering new skills in the outdoors
I instantly felt drawn to volunteering in the National Park and it rekindled my passion and love of nature as well as letting me explore new areas on my bike as I cycled to all the different events.
I used my trusted mountain bike to get around the National Park, even cycling the 34 miles from Dunblane to Balloch to take part in a Wetland Bird Survey. (Then cycling home again!)
Connecting with nature
One of the things I love the most is the incredible variety in activities from anything like rebuilding paths on Ben Ledi to doing wetland bird surveys out on the boat on Loch Lomond. I’ve also been involved in the water vole project, bird ringing and much more.
Struan’s three reasons that Young People should volunteer
- To try something new. Doing something different always brings new experiences and sometimes you will find something you are passionate about and will create really good memorable experiences.
- To connect with nature and the wildlife which is abundant in the National Park. You’ll also meet new friends who are passionate about the same things you are.
- There is a wide range of activities to explore and there is something for everyone.
Struan went on to complete an Apprenticeship in Callander and continues to volunteer.