Our Offer

Matthew Allen, Volunteering Lead at Middlesbrough Environment City, gives us the lowdown on our new volunteering offer…

MEC has launched its new official volunteering offer. How important is volunteering to MEC’s work?
“Volunteers are absolutely central to how MEC works. We involve volunteers to strengthen community relationships, extend our impact, and support activities that align with our mission and our THRIVE values. Volunteers don’t just support MEC – they shape it. Their passion, commitment and lived experience deepen the quality of what we deliver and strengthen our place in the community.”

What do volunteers bring that’s unique to MEC?
“They bring skills and perspectives we simply wouldn’t otherwise have access to. They choose to support MEC, and in doing so they add real credibility to our work. Volunteers help us reach further into communities, champion our mission, and offer fresh insight, challenge and ideas that help MEC grow and improve.”

How do volunteers influence MEC’s impact on the ground?
“Our volunteers help shape what we offer. Their insights directly influence the key activities within new opportunities, as they’re the ones working closely with communities and seeing what’s needed day-to-day.”

What do you expect from MEC volunteers?
“We ask volunteers to demonstrate MEC’s THRIVE values – Tenacious, Holistic, Responsible, Inclusive, Visionary, Empowering – in their conduct and contribution. That means showing respect, integrity, compassion and commitment. Volunteers represent MEC in the community, and we support them to do that in a way that reflects our mission and purpose.”

What would you say to someone thinking about volunteering with MEC?
“If you care about community, want to use your skills for good, and believe in helping others thrive, there’s a place for you at MEC. Volunteering with us isn’t just about giving time – it’s about being part of something meaningful, something that strengthens people and places.”

What’s your hope for MEC’s new volunteering offer?
“My hope is that it helps more people see how powerful volunteering can be – not just for MEC, but for the volunteers themselves and the communities we serve. Together, we can extend our reach, deepen our impact, and build something truly reflective of the people around us.”

The volunteering offer is based around ‘Champions’ – why have you chosen this approach?
“We chose the word ‘Champion’ because it reflects the idea of standing up for something that matters, rather than simply completing a task. It fits our approach to sustainability and community action, where people get involved in ways that feel natural and meaningful to them. It’s also inclusive and recognises that every contribution – whether occasional or regular – helps move our work forward. Champions don’t just take part in activities, they also help inspire awareness and positive change in the wider community.”