Volunteer gets work skills while helping community

TRAINING: Andrew Ordish is learning all about customer service at the Wairarapa Resource Centre where he works two days a week. PHOTO/LYNDA FERINGA

Serving people is something Andrew Ordish really enjoys doing.

About a year ago, the 20-year-old found himself unemployed and today volunteers a couple of days a week behind the counter at Wairarapa Resource Centre, something he really loves doing as he prepares himself to re-enter the work force. He's hoping to get a job as a shop assistant in the near future.

The young man used to work behind the counter at Farmers, before finding himself on a benefit.

"It's nice to be able to do something for the community. I really enjoy customer service. I like giving people a hand," Andrew said.

He found the resource centre a great place for people looking for work experience and a great place for customers to find a bargain or two. "It's fantastic for two reasons: it helps people like me get experience and I really like the idea of keeping prices low to help the customers who come in.

"To re-supply the community with low-cost goods is a great thing."

Although Andrew works at the centre only two days a week, he finds it the ideal way to get out and about in the community.

"I really like talking to people and finding out how their day is going. I feel like I'm contributing to the community by being here working.

"I'm also gaining skills for when I do get a job."