Recognising Exceptional Contributions

The Roll of Honour includes a special Volunteer Roll of Honour featuring three categories that acknowledge different levels of commitment:

• Bronze Award: 500 hours of volunteer service
• Silver Award: 1,000 hours of volunteer service
• Gold Award: 2,000 hours of volunteer service

Volunteers who achieve these milestones will receive a lapel pin badge to mark their accomplishment. Their names will also be displayed on our website—unless they opt out—so we can publicly acknowledge their remarkable contributions. Additionally, we will review past records to identify and honour those who have already met these milestones.

A Broader Commitment to Recognising Supporters

The Roll of Honour is part of The Parish Trust’s broader commitment to honouring and recognising everyone who significantly contributes to our charity. Whether they are volunteers, individual supporters, groups, or businesses, we believe that all contributions should be acknowledged.

We have developed a suite of resources to support this, including:

• Recognition events
• Ongoing training opportunities
• New experiences
• A holiday scheme specifically for volunteers

The Roll of Honour adds another layer to this commitment, ensuring that the extraordinary efforts of our supporters do not go unnoticed.

Rev. Dean Aaron Roberts, Chief Executive Officer of The Parish Trust, shared his thoughts on this new initiative:

“Recognising the hard work and dedication of all who support The Parish Trust is a core value of ours. The Roll of Honour is just one of the many ways we express our gratitude. By offering a variety of resources and recognition opportunities, we aim to make involvement with us a truly rewarding experience.”

The Power of Support

The success of The Parish Trust relies on the collective efforts of everyone who supports us. Last year, our volunteers alone contributed over 5,000 hours of service, saving the charity more than £86,000 in costs. These immense contributions allow us to extend our reach and provide more support to those who need it most. Our supporters are the driving force behind everything we do, and their efforts have a profound impact on our community.

Carrie Gealy, Youth and Children’s Programme Manager, spoke about the value of community support:

“Being part of The Parish Trust is not just about giving time; it’s about being part of a community and making a real difference. Our supporters gain so much in return, from new skills and experiences to lasting friendships. We’re proud to offer a range of resources that make supporting us both enjoyable and meaningful. As the person who heads up youth volunteering in the charity, I am particularly glad that we are creating initiatives that honour people who step out to make a difference.”

The Importance of Tracking Contributions

To ensure that contributions are accurately recorded, The Parish Trust uses dedicated software to track volunteer hours and other significant contributions. This system is essential for maintaining accurate records and ensuring that everyone receives the recognition they deserve. We encourage all supporters to use this system consistently so that their hard work is fully acknowledged.

Nerys Beckett, CARE Project Lead, highlighted the importance of this process:

“Accurate tracking of volunteer hours and contributions is key to recognising the incredible dedication of our supporters. By using our tracking system, we can ensure that every hour and every effort is counted and celebrated. Within the CARE Project alone there are over 100 volunteers registered, and every one of them adds something valuable to the work of the charity—we don’t want a minute to go to waste, as we are grateful for all the time that is given to us and the work we do.”

Celebrating Dedication Across the Board

We hope that the Roll of Honour will be a meaningful addition to The Parish Trust’s efforts to support and celebrate all who contribute to our work. By recognising significant milestones, we both honour those who have made significant contributions and inspire others to join us in our work.

If you believe you, your group, or someone you know has made a significant contribution, please get in touch.

For more information about the Roll of Honour please see our dedicated page.

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.

The Parish Trust recognises the significance of this survey and is excited to invite individuals to join us in harnessing this momentum for positive change. The survey mentioned that 1 in 10 adults are hoping to volunteer for the very first time.

Our big question is, are you one of them? We certainly hope so, as The Parish Trust is always on the lookout for volunteers to join our ever growing charity. We’re going through a unique time of momentous change as we seek to grow, and we need as many people as possible to help us in the next chapter of our journey.

Here are some of the impactful volunteering opportunities available:

1. Call Handler – Connecting Communities: Work from the comfort of your home, taking phone calls from Service Users. Shifts from 9 am to 12pm, Monday-Friday, providing vital connections and support.
2. Ticket Administrator – Streamlining Assistance: Manage online ticketing systems to confirm food parcels from home. Shifts available from 9 am to 3 pm, Monday-Friday, streamlining the process of providing essential assistance.
3. Food Packer – Nourishing Communities: Pack food parcels at our charity HQ, contribute to cleanup, and support Bag A Bargain. Shifts from 4 pm to 7 pm on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, actively nourishing communities in need.
4. Delivery Driver – Bridging Gaps: Deliver food parcels to Service Users in CF83, using your own vehicle or The Parish Trust’s delivery van. Various shifts from 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, bridging gaps in food accessibility.
5. Delivery Assistant – Supportive Role: Assist Delivery Drivers in delivering food parcels to Service Users in CF83 without the need for driving. Shifts from 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, providing valuable support.
6. Food Collector – Community Connection: Collect food donations from specific locations and organize them at the charity HQ food hub. Regular shifts with various slots available, fostering community connections.
7. Replenishment Worker – Sustaining Supplies: Contribute to putting away collected food in the charity HQ food hub. Regular shifts with various slots available, sustaining essential supplies.
8. CARE Collector – Personalized Impact: Distribute collection leaflets, collect food donations, and deliver them to the charity HQ at your convenience, allowing for a personalized and impactful contribution.
9. Community Garden Guardian – Green Oasis: Maintain the Community Garden at your convenience, creating a green oasis for the community to enjoy. No set shifts, offering flexibility to nurture community spaces.
10. Events Helper – Community Celebration: Support various prearranged events organized by The Parish Trust, contributing to community celebrations. No set shifts, involvement occurs during prearranged events.

Benefits of Volunteering:

• Community Unity: Strengthen the bonds within your community by actively participating in initiatives that address critical needs.
• Skill Enrichment: Develop and refine a diverse set of skills, enhancing your personal and professional growth.
• Social Impact: Be part of a collective effort that directly contributes to the well-being of individuals and families in your community.
• Personal Fulfillment: Experience the satisfaction that comes with knowing you’ve played a vital role in making a positive impact.

Join The Parish Trust in transforming intentions into actions and be a part of the positive change sweeping through communities. Together, let’s make 2024 the year of meaningful contributions and lasting impact.

I write to you all as we begin Volunteers Week, running from 1st-7th June each year, which is a special time dedicated to honouring the selfless individuals who give their time and energy to make a difference. I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to the amazing team of volunteers at The Parish Trust. Without your unwavering dedication and support, our organisation simply could not operate.

As an “Investing in Volunteers” accredited organisation, we understand the true value of volunteering and how it lies at the very core of our activities. Being a Christian-based organisation, we believe that service to the community is not just an option but an integral part of our work and identity. Through your tireless efforts, you embody the spirit of compassion and love, creating a positive impact on the lives of those we serve.

Volunteers are the heart and soul of The Parish Trust. Every month, you contribute hundreds of hours of your precious time to our various projects. Because of your commitment, we are able to extend our reach and assist literally thousands of individuals each year. Whether it’s providing essential support to vulnerable individuals, organising community events, bringing opportunities to children and young people, caring for the environment, or lending a listening ear to those in need, your contributions make a significant difference in the lives of many.

It fills my heart with joy and pride to witness the incredible passion and enthusiasm you bring to your volunteer work. Your willingness to invest in the well-being of others and the community is truly inspiring. Your selflessness and generosity embody what we as an organisation stand for, demonstrating the love and compassion that should be the lifeblood of an organisation founded on Christian values.

Looking to the future, The Parish Trust is already working on new initiatives to further invest in volunteering and our volunteers. We are committed to providing our young volunteers with valuable skills and opportunities that will shape their adult lives. We believe in nurturing the next generation of compassionate leaders, empowering them to create positive change in their communities.

To all those who are not yet part of our volunteer team, I invite you to consider the immeasurable benefits that volunteering brings. It is not merely an act of giving; it is an opportunity for personal growth, building relationships, and making a lasting impact. Through volunteering, you can discover new talents, develop empathy, and contribute to a cause greater than yourself whilst gaining better understanding of our beautiful yet broken world, and how you can make a positive impact on others.

If you feel called to join our extraordinary team of volunteers, we would be thrilled to welcome you with open arms. Please visit our volunteering sign-up page here to explore the opportunities available and become part of our mission to transform lives.

Once again, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to each and every one of our volunteers. Your dedication, commitment, and love shine brightly, and we are forever grateful for the invaluable contributions you make to The Parish Trust and the communities we serve.

With deepest gratitude and blessings,

Rev. Dean Aaron Roberts
CEO of The Parish Trust

Hello! My name is David and I volunteer with The Parish Trust on a Tuesday afternoon and evening at Family Games and The Games Table. I have been volunteering at The Parish Trust since March this year and have enjoyed meeting new people – volunteers and visitors – and introducing them to lots of different board games that they had never seen or played before.

Playing board games is something of a hobby for me and I have been playing them for over 50 years. I currently have a collection of more than 450 games! I have used board games in my role as a Baptist Minister working in both Primary and Secondary schools, and I have organised board games clubs and days in Cambridgeshire and now in South Wales.

Having recently stepped out of full-time church ministry to develop a new Christian Retreats Project locally volunteering with The Parish Trust gives me an opportunity to continue to be engaged in pastoral and community activity. I believe that these are both central aspects of the purpose of the Christian community and The Parish Trust demonstrates this wonderfully. The Parish Trust is a great example of how different people can be drawn together and make a real difference in their own lives and in the lives of people around them. It has been a real encouragement to see how all people are made welcome at The Parish Trust and see how they are helped according to their individual needs and given opportunities to get more involved within the growing community.

I still have plenty more games to bring along from my collection to share with anyone who would like to join us on a Tuesday afternoon or evening and discover that there is more to board games than Monopoly, Scrabble and Cluedo, so why not come along and see if we can find the right game for you.

Why don’t you consider volunteering? There’s lots of roles available, you don’t have to commit to many hours each week, and we really try to look after our volunteers well. Go to our volunteering page for more information.

What is your name and what roles do you volunteer for at the Parish Trust

I am Josh Davies. The one and only! I stock the shelves, collect food and litter pick on a Monday.

How has volunteering impacted you personally?

I am having the time of my life and enjoying the company of the bestest friends I have ever had.

What is your favourite thing about volunteering?

I enjoy everything but at litter picking, we have a good laugh and pick up lots of rubbish on the way!

Why don’t you consider volunteering? There’s lots of roles available, you don’t have to commit to many hours each week, and we really try to look after our volunteers well. Go to our volunteering page for more information.

How long have you been volunteering with The Parish Trust?

Since The Parish Trust was founded back in 2019.

How do you volunteer with The Parish Trust?

I am so proud to be involved with The Parish Trust. Aside from my trusteeship. I’ve volunteered with the charity in other ways. At the start of the COVID-19 lockdown, I was involved in helping to set up the CARE Project. I helped with the accounts, training volunteers in using the phone system, and delivery of food parcels and prescriptions.

How has volunteering impacted you personally?

I became very ill after contracting Coronavirus, and volunteering has helped me by giving me focus and purpose. I sustained a brain injury and another serious health condition following getting Covid, and being part of such an amazing organisation has helped my recovery.

What is your favourite thing about volunteering?

Helping other people and using skills that I have to help the team to deliver all that they do for the community.

How long have you been volunteering with The Parish Trust?

I’ve been volunteering since August 2021

Why do you volunteer with The Parish Trust?

I love helping others. I wanted to make new friends, learn new skills and gain work experience.

How has volunteering impacted you personally?

Working for The Parish Trust has been good for my mental health, it’s kept my mind focussed and occupied my time, I have been lucky to make new friends who are now like family to me.

What is your favourite thing about volunteering?

Working as part of a team, helping people in need, and making a difference in peoples lives.

How long have you been volunteering with The Parish Trust?

I’ve been volunteering for just over a year.

Why do you volunteer with The Parish Trust?

Because I believe that community is very important. I love working with children and families, so Tommy’s Tots gives me time to meet new people whilst doing something I love. I’m a Christian so it’s also a great way to live out my faith practically.

How has volunteering impacted you personally?

It’s been great to meet new people. As a mum myself, it’s been really good to be able to bring my own children here, to get out the house, socialise and have some adult conversation. That has been really good for my own mental health and wellbeing, and it’s great that The Parish Trust have so many things to offer such a wide range of people.

What is your favourite thing about volunteering?

For me, it’s seeing a community come together, and experiencing a nurturing environment. I also love having fun with the children!

On behalf of The Board of Trustees and our Staff Team, I would like to wholeheartedly thank every volunteer who has contributed to the work of The Parish Trust over the last year. The Board and the staff team here are acutely aware that without your dedication and passion for the organisation, the charity could not function.

In 2021, 239 of you contributed nearly 9000 hours to volunteering, which enabled us to run our projects from delivering food parcels, to nurturing mental health and wellbeing in the community, to hosting over 100 registered children at our events and clubs dedicated to children and young people. This is before we think about those who occasionally volunteer with us through our CARE Collection programme, and those who have promoted our work through leaflet distribution.

Every hour of your time has directly impacted the community, and will have helped to enrich someone’s life. We cannot stress enough to you how good this is to see.

Every week, your work creates wonderful stories of transformation in people who need help, or who have been touched by The Parish Trust in some way. You show love, you demonstrate kindness, you create community. You make a difference.

Recognising the work you do, we are keen to further invest in our volunteers for the future, which is why we are engaging in various initiatives such as working towards our Investing in Volunteers Award. More recently, we have welcomed Luke Coleman, our Wellbeing Coordinator, who will be looking into hosting various events for volunteers to enjoy and be a part of. We have also welcomed Carrie Gealy, whose portfolio will focus on Children and Youth, investing in them, and drawing them deeper into the work of the charity, both as volunteers and beneficiaries.

As a Christian based organisation, Jesus’ words to love our neighbour as he loves us are at the heart of our organisation, and we believe that volunteers are vital in living out this ideal. We are fortunate to work with a diverse army of volunteers, some who share our Christian faith, some who are not sure, and some who wouldn’t describe themselves as believers, but still want to get behind and support of philanthropic aims of making our world a better place. This joint effort by our volunteers is tangible.

I am pleased to say that, at year end, every year since the founding of the charity, I have signed off our annual report with confidence, knowing that we have worked for the public benefit. That is largely down to our volunteers.

So, as we celebrate Volunteers Week for 2022, with various social media campaigns planned and some special events for our Volunteers, may I reiterate my continued thanks for all you do, and may God richly bless you as you selflessly serve others with such dedication.

With my love,

Rev. Dean Aaron Roberts | Chair of Trustees