The work of volunteers, who give up their time to help others, will be celebrated tonight (Wednesday, November 23) at the National Museum of Wales.
The event, organised by the Cardiff Voluntary Sector Compact (a three way partnership between the voluntary sector, Cardiff Council and the local NHS), will provide an opportunity for city dignitaries to say thank you to the many people who give their time freely for the benefit of others.
There are around 150,000 people doing some type of voluntary work in Cardiff, and appropriately, a huge cross section of volunteers were nominated to attend the event, including people who work with children, health groups, community groups and disability organisations.
Among the people celebrated at tomorrow night’s event will be Linda James. Linda volunteers over 200 hours each month, the equivalent of a 46 hour working week, in her role with Bullies Out; a charity that works with schools to raise awareness on the effect of bullying.
“Volunteering”, Linda said “enables me to make a positive difference to the lives of others.”
Bullies Out Trustees describe Linda as “a striking role model to others on how to strive and work diligently to achieve a vision and a dream.”
Another volunteer attending the event is Diane Leigh. Diane has volunteered for the last eight years helping the victims and witnesses of crime who attend court to give evidence.
She also visits vulnerable and intimidated victims in their homes, going out of her way to ensure they have a familiar, supportive face throughout the trial; helping Cardiff people to be safe and feel safe.
Diane said: “I genuinely like helping people. I love every aspect of volunteering.”
At 17, Scott Williams will be one of the youngest volunteers attending the event. He chairs the Youth Committee at North Ely Youth and Community Centre and runs programmes to support younger members to develop their learning opportunities and achieve their full potential.
Scott is an excellent role model for young people in the centre and is committed to improving his community. He has been the driving force behind attaining funding to enable to young people to try different sporting and outdoor activities in the community and further afield.
Councillor Judith Woodman, Executive Member for Communities, Housing and Social Justice said: ”These profiles provide a small snapshot of the fantastic contribution volunteers across the City make and we hope that the evening will provide a platform to pay tribute to their selfless work. The contribution of volunteers to the city of Cardiff and society as a whole cannot be underestimated.”
