Powys Association of Voluntary Organsiations (PAVO) and the High Sheriff of Powys, Reg Cawthorne held the first Volunteer Voices Launch event on 27th February 2024.
It was an afternoon of thanks and celebration with fizz and cake to recognise a small number of volunteers across Powys who make a huge difference. Reg Cawthorne, High Sheriff of Powys said: “There are so many volunteers that deserve to be recognised, I am delighted that during my term of office I can shine a light on some of those unsung heroes, that volunteer to support their local communities across Powys. I have very much looked to highlight those volunteers that are often in the background but provide such integral support to our local communities.”
The Lord Lieutenant, Tia Jones also attended the event and said it was a privilege to be part of the event and to recognise such a variety of volunteer roles across Powys.
The Volunteer Voices event highlighted a past winner of the Powys Volunteer of the Year Awards; Mums Matter Peer Support group (Mid and North Powys Mind). Three volunteers, Beth, Georgie and Lauren spoke about their experiences and their journeys to becoming volunteers and supporting others. Beth said, “we know the work we do through volunteering is huge and has an impact on so many, however it was so special to be recognised by someone else and to win the Excellence in Health and Wellbeing Award in 2023.”
Clair Swales, CEO of PAVO said; “It was an honour to work alongside the High Sheriff for this event – volunteers are the lifeblood of the county with over 42% of Powys residents volunteering across the county. Without volunteers many of the services delivered by the voluntary sector would be unable to continue.”
The High Sheriff of Powys, Reg Cawthorne awarded 4 groups and 2 individuals for their tireless volunteering efforts which have supported so many individuals with their mental health and wellbeing. Also recognised was the huge amount of time given and fundraising efforts to enable service delivery.
Those awarded were:
Powys Samaritans, Friends of Hope House (Powys), Cancer Research UK – Llandrindod Committee, The Drop in Eatery (Knighton), Margaret (Maggie) Wright for her unwavering service as a volunteer driver and Jenna Smith for her support in developing the Llanyre play park and toilets.
The event also launched the nominations for the Powys Volunteer of the Year Awards 2024. Nominations close on 1st April 2024.
If you know someone or a group in your community that makes a huge difference, nominate them now!
Cymraeg: https://bit.ly/GGFP2024
English: https://bit.ly/PVOY2024
