“I’ve discovered strengths I didn’t know I had”
Listening When Linnea started working at Erikshjälpen in “ Åkarp ,” her goal was to gain work experience and have something meaningful to do during the day. But being a “ Volunteer ” gives her so much more.
On her first day at the store, she was nervous. Not because it felt like hard work, but simply because she wanted to make a good impression. But it didn’t take long before she felt at home.
“There was such a great atmosphere, and there was a sense of calm about the whole thing,” says Linnea.
Today, Linnea works primarily at Eriks kafé, where she helps with everything from preparing for opening, making sandwiches, and heating pies to serving customers. The work is fun and varied, but it’s still the people who have made the biggest impression on her. Before she started, she didn’t think there would be so many volunteers her own age. So it was a pleasant surprise when, in addition to a strong sense of community, she also found two new close friends.
Volunteering has not only given Linnea new friends and experiences; it has also helped her grow as a person.
– Erikshjälpen has really shaped me, and I’ve discovered strengths I didn’t know I had.
Erikshjälpen has really shaped who I am, and I've discovered strengths I didn't know I had.
Being able to help means a lot to Linnea, and she believes that more young people would benefit from getting involved. Many want to make a difference, but don’t always know how.
– Becoming a “ Volunteer ” is a great way to make a difference.
You can make a bigger difference than you think, and we really need more volunteers. For other young people who are thinking about getting involved, she has one simple piece of advice:
Just become a " Volunteer"—it's totally worth it, and it's so much fun!
Published: 10 September 2026
