With over 400 societies and sports teams to choose from, it’s easy for students at the University of Manchester to overlook volunteering. But if my past weekend is anything to go by, this is to miss out big time. I can confidently say that my experience with Make-A-Smile this past weekend is one of my favourite memories from my two and a half years as a student.
Make-A-Smile is a student-led charity that brings joy to disadvantaged children by sending trained volunteers dressed as beloved characters to various events in the hopes of creating lifelong memories. All volunteers are fully trained in their character – from their back story to character acting – after all there’s nothing worse than a superhero who doesn’t know their own backstory!
After completing my training, I was invited to my first event—a fundraiser for the Hidden Treasures UK charity—where I would step into the shoes (or in this case, the mask) of Spider-Man.
The day began like any great day as a student in Manchester, with an early start and a vending machine coffee, before meeting the rest of the team at the Student Union building.
Naturally, I was extremely nervous for my first event, but from the very start the Vice President, Jess, made the experience so much easier. Despite having been up all night perfecting the costumes, she was still full of energy, driving us straight from the SU to the event and ensuring everything ran smoothly.
To keep the illusion alive, we sneaked into the back of the venue, because nothing says larger than life characters like being seen squeezing out of a Fiat Punto, and then it was time for the magic to start!
Within seconds of walking in, a wave of children came sprinting toward us, hands outstretched for high-fives, eager for photos, and absolutely convinced that they had just met the real Spider-Man.
For a brief moment, I felt completely overwhelmed but all I had to do was glance over to fellow volunteer Aurora who was already fully in character, effortlessly twirling, posing for photos, and making each child feel like they were part of a Disney movie. Clearly, she was a pro, and I decided my best bet was to just follow her lead.
And, it wasn’t just her – I felt fully supported and encouraged by my fellow volunteers, that I couldn’t help but release my inner spidey-powers. Brooklyn, also at her first event, pulled off a spot-on Moana with enough confidence and enthusiasm that you would think it was her 100th event! Magic Maker Sadie (non-costume volunteers who help the day run smoothly) was als on on hand to keep me completely calm with constant check-ups and mask adjustments.
The initial rush was also much easier to navigate thanks to Magic Maker Sadie (non-costume volunteers who help the day run smoothly), who, despite it being her first event, kept me completely calm with constant check-ups and mask adjustments.
The venue itself was incredible, a soft play centre transformed into a jungle adventure, with carefully arranged decorations that made it evident how much the staff cared about creating a great experience.
I had expected the excitement and chaos of the day, but I hadn’t anticipated just how genuinely moving the experience would be. From the moment we stepped in, we were swarmed by ecstatic faces, overjoyed at the chance to take photos, share their favourite superheroes, or simply tell me all about themselves.
I was curious how costumes could have such an unbelievable impact but the more I listened, the more I realised that, for them, this wasn’t just about meeting characters it was about being seen, heard, and feeling special. It was hard not to feel just as inspired as they did!
There were countless moments throughout the day that left an impact with me, but there are two specific moments that will stay with me forever.
In the first hour, I was introduced to a young boy who according to his parents had a very difficult time talking in public, especially around new people. However, towards the end of the session I felt a slight tug on my sleeve and this child who had been carefully watching from a distance had came over to make me promise that I would be there for his birthday next summer.
Later in the day, as the event was wrapping up, I knelt down to tie my shoelaces before doing one final goodbye. Out of nowhere I was rushed by a surprise hug from a girl who had been too shy to come over all day. This simple gesture perfectly encapsulated what the magic of the day was all about
If this experience has taught me anything, it’s that volunteering at the University of Manchester is something every student should explore, so why not start today? The range of opportunities is unbelievable so if a spider man costume isn’t for you there’s bound to be something that is!
Follow @uomvolunteering on Instagram to explore opportunities and be sure to check out Make-A-Smile at makeasmile.org.uk!