Voluntary work is being celebrated across the UK for the 30th anniversary of Volunteers’ Week.
The North Herts Centre for Voluntary Service (CVS) and its Stevenage equivalent will be promoting the work of their volunteers during events in Comet country this week, as part of the annual campaign week which began on Monday and runs until Sunday.
About 1,500 people from across the area are signed up to the service and volunteer for a wide variety of organisations – from helping in care homes to franking letters for charities.
Volunteer centre co-ordinator Savita Mason said: “There are many different roles available for people to get involved in. You could volunteer with children, support older people in the community or perhaps help an organisation with administrative tasks and get involved in marketing or fundraising.
“The volunteer centres are here to help find the right volunteer role for you.”
One volunteer, Lorna, said: “I had been out of work for some time and was looking for something which involved being outdoors. As I was having no luck finding paid employment I decided to find a volunteer opportunity to keep myself busy.
“I dropped by at the Stevenage centre and explained what I was interested in. They put me in touch with Waste Not Want Not, a horticultural-based social enterprise and community interest company, the same day which was great.
“I have been volunteering for a few weeks and am thoroughly enjoying my role. I love gardening and unfortunately do not have a garden of my own so it has provided me with the opportunity to use my skills.
“It has given me purpose and something to look forward to, I have also been able to meet new people. I absolutely love it and will continue to volunteer for the foreseeable future.”
As part of campaign North Herts CVS will be attending Hitchin Health and Wellbeing Day between 9.30am and 1.30pm in Hitchin Market Square on Saturday and Stevenage Day on Sunday from midday at King George V Playing Fields.
For more information visit www.nhcvs.org.uk
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