Volunteers' Week 2023: Celebrate and Inspire
Published on 05 June 2023 12:15 PM
2023 marks the 39th year of Volunteers' Week (1-7 June), when Age UK Hammersmith & Fulham joins thousands of charities and voluntary organisations in recognising the invaluable contributions of volunteers across the UK. This year, under the theme of 'Celebrate and Inspire,' we aim to inspire individuals to become the agents of change we want to see in our community by getting involved in volunteering in ways that resonate with them.
Volunteers often work behind the scenes, their efforts unseen and unrecognised by many. However, their impact is profound, touching the lives of those they serve and the wider society. As we observe Volunteers' Week, it is crucial to take the time to honour and appreciate their unwavering dedication and the invaluable role they play in our local communities, the voluntary sector, and society as a whole.
In the spirit of celebration, this Volunteers' Week, we are thrilled to spotlight seven exceptional volunteers whose journeys have made a real difference. Through their stories, we hope to provide you with a deeper understanding of what volunteering entails and its transformative power, both for the recipients of support and the volunteers themselves.
As we embark on this special week, our CEO, Derec Craig, shares a heartfelt message for all our remarkable volunteers:
"Your reliability, thoughtfulness, and infectious smiles are a testament to the profound impact that good-hearted individuals can have on society. I am incredibly proud to be surrounded by such wonderful people. Thank you for everything you do to support and uplift older people in Hammersmith and Fulham. Here's to another year of making a difference!"
We invite you to continue reading and delve into the inspiring stories of these incredible volunteers who exemplify the spirit of compassion and generosity. Their experiences will inspire and empower you to consider the positive impact you can make in your community.
Click below to discover their extraordinary stories:
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Meet Anna
For the past eight months, Anna has been a minibus shopping escort, providing assistance and heartfelt companionship to our older members. What truly sets her experience apart are the life stories she has the privilege of hearing during their trips. These stories often remain untold, making it all the more special for Anna to be a listening ear and forge connections beyond the shopping aisles...
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Meet Annette
Annette's motivation to become a volunteer with Age UK Hammersmith & Fulham stemmed from her deep desire to give something back to the community. Despite her full-time job, she wanted to make a positive impact and bring smiles to those facing challenging times. Six years on, her contribution as a befriender has made a massive difference in the lives of the individuals she supports...
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Meet Charlie
For almost two years, Charlie has been an invaluable part of the Age UK family, engaging in various roles that have touched the lives of many. Last year, Charlie raised an impressive £4.2K by embracing a teetotal challenge, exemplifying her unwavering commitment to our shared mission to enhance later life...
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Meet Michelle
For the past eleven months, Michelle has served as a dedicated finance volunteer, bringing her expertise to our organisation. Her contributions to the finance department have strengthened our relationships with external partners, fostering a positive and efficient working environment while nurturing her own personal growth...
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Meet Clarissa
Since September 2022, Clarissa has been an invaluable member of our volunteer team, devoting her weekends to assisting at our Charity Shop. With her commitment, she has played a vital role in ensuring the shop runs smoothly, making it more accessible and welcoming for both staff and visitors...
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Ready to Make a Difference?
To learn more about the different volunteering opportunities we offer and how you can get involved, explore our Volunteer Page!