Jav and Ryan’s story

A friendship blossomed between Jav,16, and Ryan,17, at Green Patch. Now, they both volunteer.

Jav: "I have been volunteering at Green Patch since December 2022, as part of my Moulton College course in Animal Management. Since joining the team, I am so much more confident and I enjoy looking after the chickens, and I even got to name a few.

When I first started volunteering, I was nervous around new people and social situations. Everyone at Green Patch was really welcoming, and I soon became more comfortable because no one judged me. Now, I volunteer every Tuesday, and really enjoy how fun and friendly everyone is.

I have a key interest in animal welfare, so Green Patch allows me to not only see a range of animals but be hands on and an active part of their care. We have rabbits, named Daisy and Darcy, chickens, bees and ducks, so I like learning about what type of care each animal needs.

My favourite thing is to collect the chicken and duck eggs with Ryan, my friend that I made at Green Patch. I also have my name written on my own planting patch, which I regularly weed and replant herbs and flowers in.”

Ryan: "I volunteer every Tuesday to gain some gardening experience to help me towards my career in horticultural landscaping. I first discovered Green Patch when I visited after school to take part in cooking, basketball and football.

I am currently studying Creative Art, Media and Business at Tresham College in Kettering and started volunteering at Green Patch in September 2022. I normally plant the potatoes and strawberries and help to collect the eggs from the chickens with my friend Jav.

I come along to Green Patch as it feels like home – everyone is so kind and has big smiles on their faces. Meeting new people is something I really enjoy, and being able to share this space with so many people is great. I have made some great friends here, including Jav, and we have created so many amazing memories. You can be who you want to be and I feel like a valued member of the community.”