Bosses at Beacon showcased the efforts of its 300 plus volunteers with an awards ceremony and tea party today to celebrate Volunteers’ Week (June 1-7).
The charity was keen to highlight the tireless efforts of its invaluable volunteers who support the charity across several fields. The awards recognised a number of categories including Volunteer of the Year, New Volunteer of the Year, Special Recognition Award and Corporate Volunteer Award.
Beacon CEO, Lisa Cowley, said: “Our volunteers are a vital part of the Beacon family. Volunteers dedicate a great deal of time and energy and we wanted to recognise that. Our volunteers are the backbone of Beacon and we can’t thank them enough for their tireless support. The awards also gave us a chance to thank our supporters with some tea and delicious cakes.”
Volunteers’ Week is a national celebration and a chance to say thank you to the fantastic contribution millions of volunteers make across the UK. It takes place 1-7 June every year and is an opportunity to celebrate volunteering in all its diversity. The charity is also using the week to showcase what a difference volunteers make and how they help support Beacon.
John Archer, who was awarded the Special Recognition Award, commented: “I have been volunteering with Beacon for over two years. The work I do helps ensure people visiting the local eye infirmary are aware of Beacon and how it can support people living with sight loss. I am very proud of this award and want to dedicate it to everyone who gives up their free time at Beacon and make a difference.”
Lisa added: “Without our volunteers we would not be able to deliver all our vital services which help so many people, but volunteering is more than just giving up your free time. It’s a chance to make a visible difference to your local community and give something back.
“We also want to use this celebration to showcase volunteering and encourage others to sign up to the many opportunities at Beacon. Whether you want to help in our shops, support the admin team or lend a hand in the health and wellbeing centre there is a role for everyone.”
Beacon thanked Golden Gate Superdraw for sponsoring the awards. The community lottery scheme donates some of its proceeds to Beacon. The funds help support services, such as inclusive sports, days out for our customers and making sure IT is accessible for all – just £30 provides an hour of IT training to help a person with sight loss live more independently.