“IF YOU had asked me where would I be over a year ago, I could not have answered positively,” is the reflection of a one-time homeless man, who has since turned his life around through volunteering.

Sam Weiss, 42, battled drug dependency for many years and had been made homeless as a result.

Looking to change his life, he began applying to volunteer with charities and community groups but had no luck.

It was not until he applied to Andover Bus Station-based Unity and was accepted that things really began to change for him.

During his time with Unity, Sam assisted in an administrative role and provided help with website development.

He also took an active role with events and activities in the community through which Unity Volunteering raised awareness of the benefits of volunteering.

Unity chiefs said Sam was always the first to offer assistance on the day, encouraging many other people to sign up as volunteers.

Due to his constant hard work, Sam was recognised in November through the Test Valley Annual Volunteering Awards for the contribution he has made.

Since volunteering, Sam’s life has changed dramatically. He has a roof over his head and secured a job with Two Saints, helping people who would otherwise be on the street themselves.

Last week, Sam’s life changed even further. He was offered a job with a national charity which run homes for autistic children, meaning Sam will move to London to train as a home manager, a prospect that would have seemed impossible for him two years ago.

Terry Bishop, Unity chief executive said: “In the space of a year, Sam’s life has been changed forever through volunteering and by being given a chance to prove himself.

“Sam is a lively and entertaining character, who has worked so hard to turn his life around and we at Unity are delighted to have been a part of his positive journey.

“He is truly an inspiration to others and we wish him the very best of luck for the future.”

Sam said: “Life was scary with little hope. Now I have to keep pinching myself with where my life is today.

“Thanks to saying yes to Unity and their support, I have a future that I can sustain and I am making a difference.”