2023 marks the 39th year of Volunteers’ Week (1-7 June), when Empanda will join thousands of charities and voluntary organisations recognising the contribution volunteers make across the UK. With this year’s theme of ‘Celebrate and Inspire’ we hope to encourage people to be the change that we want to see and get involved in volunteering in whatever way works for them.
The contribution of volunteers is often unseen and unrecognised by many, visible only through the incredible impact of their volunteering, so taking the time during Volunteers’ Week to celebrate their efforts and all they contribute to our local communities, the voluntary sector and society as a whole has never been more important.
Vinnie, who lives in Attleborough at one of Empanda’s supported living services for adults with a learning disability, volunteers at Brandon Day Centre. He said, “I love volunteering at Brandon Day Centre in the garden as it gets me out of the house and I get to meet new people which has a positive effect on my mental health. It also keeps me out of trouble because I am fully occupied and happy.”
Linda Robinson, Manager at All Hallows Day Centre said, “All our volunteers are great ambassadors to our centre. It is lovely to see their happy faces each week and to watch them sharing their own skills and knowledge with everyone, taking part in activities such as playing scrabble, gardening, baking, armchair exercises and lots more.
I would also like give a big mention to our PAT (Pets as Therapy) dogs. Our customers love to see Maisie and Minty visiting the centre. They particularly like Minty sitting on their laps and being able to give her lots of cuddles.
All our volunteers are a valued part of our team. We really appreciate all the help they give us and cannot thank them enough for their generosity and for giving up their free time to help us.”
