Emmaus Mossley celebrates national Volunteer’s Week

Emmaus volunteer – Brenda Cricket

Volunteers at Emmaus Mossley will be thanked for their contribution this week to mark Volunteers’ Week 2015, which runs from 1-7 June.

Emmaus communities support formerly homeless people by providing them with a stable home and meaningful work for as long as they need it. Emmaus Mossley has 16 regular volunteers as well as a board of Trustees who volunteer their time to oversee the organisation of the charity.

Brenda Cricket started volunteering at Emmaus Mossley more than 12 years ago and is now its longest serving volunteer. Brenda said: “I started volunteering at Emmaus after retiring from a busy job. I wanted to carry on with the skills that I had developed but do it in an entirely different situation. I love what I do. It is a pleasure to work alongside people who have vision and hope. I hope I speak for all the volunteers by saying that we simply try to make things better.”

Volunteers are central to the work of countless charities and organisations. They are a valuable presence in many communities, helping out in places as diverse as sports clubs, libraries, schools and hospitals.

During Volunteers’ Week hundreds of events will be taking place across the country to say thank you to volunteers who give their time and energy throughout the year. The campaign, which was established in 1984, seeks to recognise the work that volunteers do and showcase the varied volunteering opportunities that exist.

Justin Davis Smith, director of volunteering at the National Council for Voluntary Organisations, which coordinates Volunteers’ Week in England, said:

“Volunteers’ Week is the perfect opportunity to recognise volunteers who put their time, energy and enthusiasm into helping others. Whether it’s clearing out a local park, or helping with a reading club or food bank, volunteers are the social glue keeping our communities together. This week of events across the country will, I hope, show people how much their contribution is valued.

‘Last year marked 30 years of Volunteers’ Week celebrations, highlighting how rich our history of social action really is. We hope that this Volunteers’ Week you will join us in saying thank you to everyone who volunteers.’

This year, as well as thank you events organised by charities, volunteers are being encouraged to share their own stories and motivations on social media using the hashtag #ivolunteer.

Author: Jude Gidney - Editor

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