Picture Ref: 77738-12IF volunteering conjures up images of elderly ladies running charity shops, then think again.
In Swindon hundreds of young people give their time through the Millennium Volunteers' programme.
And the opportunities to help can range from conservation holidays to sports coaching.
Tom Barkham, 18, has just notched up 200 hours of voluntary service, mainly by coaching the under-10s at Wootton Bassett Rugby Football Club.
"At the end of it the kids that I coach are really happy and they have learnt something," said Tom, who lives in Wroughton and is currently doing temporary office work.
"It makes me want to do it again."
Millennium Volunteers was launched in 2000 to encourage people aged 16 to 24 to volunteer.
And awards are given out when the young people reach 100 and 200 hours of service.
The Volunteer Centre Swindon and the British Trust For Conservation Volunteers are the two bases for the project in Swindon.
To find out more about Millennium Volunteers contact Sue Dunmore at the Volunteer Centre on 01793 420557 or BTCV on 01793 430700 or 0800 389 5738.
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