We’ve been inspired to learn more about the Londoners who volunteer regularly to help others. Read about Chris, who volunteers in the arts ...

Here at City Hall, we’re looking to learn more about the many Londoners who volunteer on a regular basis, helping friends, neighbours, relatives and their local community, to make a real difference.

Throughout November and December, you may have seen a number of our Team London Stars in a campaign on tube posters, the internet and in newspapers. We’ve also invited some of these stars to tell their stories on the City Hall Blog.

Lizzie Noel, Advisor for Social Action and Volunteering.

Chris – Helps kids perform

I’m Chris Costello and I volunteer for Montage Theatre Arts.

As a volunteer I do anything from helping out, to working in the office and facilitating events. Being a volunteer with Montage is great, especially with all the big events that we do.

Every week is different. It may just be a few hours working in the office, helping classes run smoothly or keeping larger events in check. It is so varied, it keeps me on my toes and helps me stay young and always up for a new challenge.

I am a people person and really enjoy helping people of all ages. That’s why I love working with Montage Theatre, because of the amazing staff and students. The young people who come here are so talented but don’t get many chances. Here they get to forget their troubles for a few hours a week and work together to create some amazing performances.

When I see them at the theatre and watch their faces light up and their talent shining through it gives me hope for the future and the way we can challenge the negative connotations about young people.

I should say that I think of the theatre where I volunteer not as an organisation but as a family, the Montage family. It’s small and communal, the staff, students and parents are all great and the support is amazing.