On Monday 3 June over 70 volunteers from voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations across York, were thanked for their contribution to the city as part of a celebration event held at the Guildhall.
The event was organised by York CVS and York Volunteers, and was supported by the University of York.
Volunteers enjoyed entertainment from Accessible Arts and local musician, Danny Sewell, before being treated to afternoon tea in the historic building. All volunteers received a certificate of appreciation for their contributions.
Alison Semmence, Chief Executive, York CVS commented:
“Volunteers contribute so much to our city so it was wonderful to be able to say thank you through the celebration event and to recognise the role volunteers play across York.”
Professor Kiran Trehan, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Enterprise, Partnerships & Engagement, University of York, sent a message of support to the volunteers:
“The York Volunteers Let’s Celebrate Event is a testimony and recognition of your inspiring contributions. Today is a chance for us to honour the contributions you have made and are making. Through your dedication, commitment, and tireless efforts as volunteers you are making a profound difference in the lives of many.
Whether you’re mentoring our youth, caring for the elderly, protecting the environment, or supporting those in need, each of you have played a vital role in shaping a brighter, more inclusive future.
Together, through our collective spirit let’s continue to build a city where compassion and community spirit flourish.”
The event was held as part of national Volunteers’ Week, which takes place between 1 – 7 June. Now in its 40th year, the annual event aims to celebrate and thank those who give up their time to make a difference to their local communities.
All volunteers are truly amazing; dedicating their time and expertise to our local communities and voluntary sector. We have created a Certificate of Appreciation, pictured above, which we presented to volunteers during the celebration event. The certificate is available as a free download for your organisation to present to your volunteers.
Watch the highlight video from the event below:
Accessible Arts were the highlight for me but the whole event was just fab!
It was a marvellous occasion so well organised, venue was stunning and the drinks and afternoon tea was so delicious. Thank you ❤
Thank you so much for a wonderful afternoon!
York’s VCSE organisations say a huge THANK YOU to their volunteers, find out what they said below…
Red Tower
The Red Tower is only a very small part of a complex web of social provision and can only serve a small community in modest ways. It brings together volunteers and City of York support to improve the lives of the community and enrich the cultural space.
Without volunteers there would be no Red Tower and we welcome this event which recognises their contribution.
Kyra Women's Project
We can’t thank our wonderful volunteers enough for all the time and dedication they so kindly give to support Kyra Women’s Project and our members.
Our volunteers touch the lives of so many women across York, every single day, without perhaps realising the huge difference they make. We hope this reminds you how valuable you are!
Holy Trinity, Goodramgat
All the volunteers at Holy Trinity, Goodramgate do an amazing job ensuring that the building and churchyard are open and welcoming to the people of York (Wednesday to Sunday, 11am to 4pm) and stewarding events in the evenings. They all have their own areas of expertise – the building, history, people, garden, archaeology, art and crafting.
Strictly Fun Dancing
Our Strictly Fun Dancing activity is designed to improve people’s wellbeing in the community. The tag line on our posters states – why not come dancing – it’s good for your body, balance and brain!
York Cares
York Cares would like to thank all of our employee-volunteers for the huge contribution they make to the city in making it an even better place. Georgia, Kali and Ebba are part of the wonderful York Cares team, bringing businesses, employees and communities together. They are all talented and dedicated individuals who are passionate about making a difference in the city.
Healthwatch York
The Healthwatch York volunteers are a key part of our team. So far in 2024 they have helped us hear from more than 1,300 people sharing their experiences of local GP practices and reviewed 55 health leaflets among many other things.
City of York Council
City of York Council values all volunteers who offer their time and support to make a difference. There are many opportunities to support children, young people and parents in particular mentoring and the Independent Visitors Service supporting young people in care. Our attendees at the event have made a huge difference to the children they have and continue to support.
Door 84
Door 84 has been lucky enough to recruit over 30 volunteers across the range of activities we offer to children, young people and families. Without them, we would struggle to run the 7 sessions a week for children, young people and families.
Refugee Action York
A huge thank you to all the volunteers with Refugee Action York who though their kindness, generosity and bonhomie support refugees, asylum seekers and migrants in York.
York Minster
Over 400 volunteers enhance the Minster through their contributions across nearly 30 roles. Both Steve and Ruth are guides and everyone in this role is invaluable, helping visitors experience the Minster and bring it to life with their enthusiasm and expertise. This is only one role and one example of the ways that our dedicated volunteers give to the Minster.
Independent Monitoring Board
Thank you so much for the incredible work you do as an IMB member. We can’t thank you enough for your time dedication and unwavering commitment. Your tireless work has ensured that those who are held in custody are treated with fairness and respect.
St Leonard's Hospice
Our volunteers are the beating heart of St Leonard’s Hospice, we truly wouldn’t be able to exist without them.
York Bike Belles
Thank you! You improve the quality of life of some of the most vulnerable people in the city. Through the Rides, you bring joy, fresh air, companionship and community into the lives of elder people in care homes who rarely get out.
York Scouts
Thank you to our 500 inspirational volunteers in Scout Groups across York who provide fun and adventure for over 2000 young people every week, equipping them with confidence and skills for life.
We always need more help and have roles for everyone that fit around busy lives. You do not need to do something every week, as helping with a few tasks still helps the overall team to make a difference. Volunteering is not just about giving back – it goes both ways. It improves your wellbeing, gives you skills for the future, and helps you make new friends and memories.
Age UK York
We couldn’t do what we do without our amazing volunteers. Whether they have been with us 25 years as Sylvia has, or 11 years for Arthur, or a more recent joiner in Angela, they give so much to the older residents of York. Many volunteers don’t wish to join celebrations or be thanked and are happy to work in the background – thank you to those volunteers too.
Dementia Forward
Thank you to all our volunteers for the time, skills, fun and compassion they bring to Dementia Forward.
I am reusable
Our organisation is run on a 100% voluntary basis. The amazing kindness and contribution of our volunteers is massive.
We provide a 365 day/yr foodbank service for many 1000s of struggling residents, plus a free social food service to the Council, Probation service, police, hospital. We are not just a foodbank.
We give guidance and sign post people to other services eg benefits, jobs, mental health. We contibute massively to the combatting of food waste in our city.
This voluntary contribution to lives of our residents is all only possible due to the dedication, hard work and kindness of our dozens of volunteers. They are all stars and deserve recognition. In particular a special shout out to our star Kate Johnson who is here today. A big thanks to her. We could not have done it without her