The first week of June is designated as Volunteers Week in the UK, and at The Parish Trust, a Celebration Evening was held on Thursday 6th June dedicated to celebrating and appreciating our incredible volunteers.
Organised by Nerys Beckett, CARE Project Lead, and Carrie Gealy, Youth & Children’s Engagement Officer, the event saw a gathering of many of our devoted volunteers. The evening featured a delightful buffet courtesy of The Parish Trust, with generous donations from Dominos and Morrisons, alongside a fun quiz and a speech from our CEO, Rev. Dean Aaron Roberts.
In his speech, Dean expressed deep gratitude for the volunteers, acknowledging their “unwavering commitment and tireless efforts” that have saved the charity an astounding £86,000 in costs. He highlighted how volunteers bring “hope, support, and positive change” to countless individuals and families through various activities such as food packing, fundraising, gardening, and providing support to youth and volunteers with additional needs.
Dean also shared exciting news about the future of The Parish Trust, including the establishment of the Volunteer Voice Council, a platform for volunteers to share their ideas, feedback, and insights. This council aims to ensure that volunteers’ voices are at the heart of the charity’s direction. Additionally, he announced the launch of the Room to Reward programme, which will recognise exceptional volunteer contributions with a well-deserved overnight stay in a participating hotel with choices available from all around the country.
Looking ahead, Dean addressed the significant transition the charity faces with the move to new premises. The recent gift of Bryn Hall presents a wonderful opportunity, although it requires significant renovation before it can fully serve the charity’s wide range of services. He acknowledged the financial challenges ahead but emphasised that the need for their services has never been greater.
He concluded by highlighting the invaluable input and involvement of volunteers, stating, “Your experiences, ideas, and dedication will continue to shape The Parish Trust and enhance the support we provide to our communities.”
The evening was a testament to the vital role volunteers play at The Parish Trust, celebrating their achievements and looking forward to many more years of making a difference together.
Thank you to all our volunteers for your passion, commitment, and incredible contributions. You are truly the heart of The Parish Trust family.
