VOLUNTEERS who have dedicated over seven thousands hours of their time to help others have been praised for their tireless efforts.
Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council’s re:fresh service invited over 30 volunteers to a special awards ceremony at Audley Sports and Community Centre on Sunday, 12th June.
Volunteers were presented with certificates for completing 50, 100 and 150 hours of work at the event which coincided with National Volunteer Week as a show of appreciation for their contribution to the borough.
The volunteers, who delivered more than 279 health and wellbeing sessions, aim to help local residents lead a healthier, happier life.
Their roles have ranged from raising awareness of different health conditions, to growing fruit and vegetables and delivering exercise sessions.
Executive member for Culture, Leisure and Young People, Councillor Damian Talbot, said: “I cannot thank our volunteers enough for the work that they do. The roles that they play are invaluable and make a huge difference to the people that they work with. Our projects simply could not achieve as much in the community without their dedication.”
Volunteers’ Week is an annual campaign led by the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) which took place from 1st – 12th June.
Over 21 million people volunteer in the UK at least once a year, and this contributes an estimated £23.9bn to the UK economy. These 21 million people are a shining example of how volunteers can make a big difference to individuals and communities.
Alison Atherton, 54, was delighted to be invited to the celebratory event, she said: “Volunteering is such a rewarding experience. Happiness, loyalty and friendships are very special and that’s what makes it worth-while.”
Sally Randle, 37, volunteers one day a week and has clocked up more than 250 hours since she started.
She said: “On a personal level volunteering is very rewarding, it isn’t about the money, it’s about helping other people achieve their goals. From assisting walks around Witton Park to helping visually impaired members of the public in the gym, no two days are ever the same.”
If you would like to find out more about volunteering with re:fresh, please visit www.refreshbwd.com.
