Thank you for making a difference
Hundreds of people across Telford and Wrekin are to be thanked for selflessly giving up their spare time to help others and their communities
National Volunteers’ Week begins on 1 June and is an annual celebration of volunteering which, this year, highlights the differences people make through their unpaid work.
Coreen Themeras, Volunteer Development Officer at Telford & Wrekin Council said: “We will be writing to people in the borough who volunteered over the last year to say thank you for their efforts and for the difference they have made.
“Volunteers are of all ages, from as young as 11 to well into their 80s and they come from all walks of life. They include individuals, groups and businesses. We will be thanking them for their valuable contribution.
“Between them all, they do a wide variety of different jobs, from caring for someone else, to caring for animals. Some will work outdoors on environmental projects, while others prefer to be behind-the-scenes in setting up and running schemes. It really is down to what you would like to do.”
One such volunteer is Gary who has been a Street Champion litter-picker since 2013. He regularly walks through Dawley picking up rubbish. He said: “I do it because the walking is good for my health and it helps me feel good about myself knowing I am doing something for my community.
“People greet me in the street. They do appreciate what I do.”
Lyn Brayne, Service Director, Citizens Advice Telford & The Wrekin said: “We would like to take this opportunity to celebrate the achievements of all our dedicated volunteers who have improved the lives of people living in the borough. As demand for our services continues to grow, from April 2016 – March 2017 our volunteers gave 17,000 hours helping and supporting people to solve problems about money, benefits, housing, employment and more. We sincerely appreciate the efforts of all ourvolunteers who come from all walks of life, bring a wealth of lived experience and diversity representing all age groups for their outstanding commitment and contribution as a volunteer”.
Throughout the week, as part of the campaign we will be highlighting some of the borough’s volunteers and the work they do. Why not join them and become a volunteer yourself?
For more information about volunteering opportunities in Telford, visit the Volunteer Telford website or e-mail your name, telephone number and details to valeriegraham@telfordcab.co.uk
