Q&A with Daniel McKeon - water distribution volunteer

 
 
 
 



We had a quick Q&A session with volunteer Daniel McKeon, who has helped The Salvation Army distribute water across London to thirsty spectators during the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

1) Tell us a bit about yourself? Where you’re from and your job?

My name is Daniel McKeon, I come from North West London and I am just entering my first year of 6th Form.

2) Why did you volunteer for the Olympic and Paralympics water distribution?

I originally joined because of something called ‘The2012’, which was 2012 young Christians coming together during the Olympics, to take part in activities and volunteering.

I was instantly drawn to giving out water as I thought it would be something fun to do, and I like to help people and serve my community.

3) Where were you distributing water?

I was distributing water outside of Euston Station.

4) What was the experience like?

It was an absolutely amazing experience. There was an amazing atmosphere, with people in their home countries kits, everybody smiling and people who didn’t know each other were talking and making conversation.

5) Has it been what you thought it would be?

It has been, and more! Just to be able to say that I was up in London, distributing water, during the London 2012 Olympic Games is amazing and something that I will never forget.

6) Tell us the most amusing or memorable moment during your volunteering?

Giving bottles of water out to the police officers near the station.  We even gave all of them a pin badge of the Olympic mascot Wenlock dressed as a police officer. They were so friendly and were very happy to receive the water, and the badge!!

7) What have you gained out of the experience?

I have gained some fantastic friends who I will keep in touch with; I have met other volunteers who came to London from all over the world and the fantastic memories of everybody’s smiling faces. It has also made me want to do more volunteer work in the future.

8) What would you say to someone thinking about volunteering?

It is something that you should definitely do. In fact I would call it life changing. It has made me a more confident person, being able to go up to a stranger in the street and offer them water or even help with directions. It has given me skills that I can take forward into the future.

I would also just like to say thank you to the Salvation Army for giving me this wonderful opportunity. I would also like to thank all of the other volunteers who made me feel so welcome on the team and made it such an enjoyable experience everyday. (See you at Rio 2016!!)




The Salvation Army was also on hand at the Paralympic marathons on Sunday 9 September, situated at four sites along the route, including New Change, Queens Street, Little Britain, plus our International Headquarters.

Read more about our water distribution programme

Salvation Army hands out thousands of water bottles at Women's Marathon
Salvation Army hands out thousands of water bottles at Men's Marathon
Water distribution programme during the Paralympics