Volunteers’ Week: A time to say thanks

Recognising the contribution of volunteers to communities around the UK, Volunteers’ Week (1-7 June) is an opportunity to say thanks to the wonderful volunteers and community members who do so much for others.

Now in its 38th year, Falkirk’s Volunteers’ Week celebrations will be led by CVS Falkirk, the third sector interface for Falkirk and District.

During an exceptionally difficult couple of years, people from all walks of life have taken the time to volunteer and make a huge difference to Falkirk’s communities – just as they do every year. This is a time for us to come together and thank all volunteers for their invaluable contribution.

Making a difference – celebrating the impact

Volunteers are always active in the heart of every UK community. They are behind many of the services we all rely on. Some are now volunteering online from home, others in person with a local charity or organisation.

Their crucial contribution has not stopped, despite the uncertain times we find ourselves in, and will continue as an important part of the nation’s recovery.

The contribution of volunteers is often unseen and unrecognised by many, visible only through the incredible impact of their volunteering.

The coronavirus pandemic has rightly raised the profile of volunteering and more people than ever are aware of the immense contribution being made every single day by Britain’s volunteers.

Local Celebrations

This year marks the return of two exciting local fixtures for the week – Falkirk’s Volunteer Awards and Celebrating Volunteering Certificates.

CVS Falkirk invited local people, organisations and groups to nominate the volunteers they think deserve recognition for their exceptional efforts.

The winner for each category will be chosen by an independent panel and will receive a surprise gift to enjoy, with prizes donated by local businesses.

Winners will be announced during Volunteers’ Week for the following Award categories:

  • Volunteer of the Year
  • Young Volunteer of the Year
  • Innovative Volunteer Award
  • Community Volunteer Award
  • Volunteer-Involving Organisation of the Year Award

Picnic in the Park

Brand new for 2022, CVS Falkirk will also be hosting the very first local #VolunteersWeek Picnic in the Park.

Volunteers are invited to join together at Callendar Park for a special thank-you picnic. You can reserve 2 spaces, including 2 picnic lunches, for your volunteer involving group or organisation at the Volunteers’ Week Picnic in the Park event on Wednesday 1st June, 12pm – 2pm.

Picnic in the Park! will be fully accessible, and will follow all relevant COVID-19 guidance at the time; attendees are welcome to wear masks if they wish, and social distancing (plus Distance Aware badges and lanyards) will be respected.

Due to catering and accessibility, booking is essential. To book spaces, or for further information, please contact the team with your group’s name and the names of your 2 attendees, by email on info@cvsfalkirk.org.uk

More ways to get involved

Further information can be found on the CVS Falkirk website at cvsfalkirk.org.uk/volunteers-week-2022-activities

To share your thanks, you can also visit the National Council for Voluntary Organisation’s  Volunteers’ Week website to download resources, take part in online events, and follow and share @NCVOvolunteers on twitter, using the hashtag #VolunteersWeek.