International Volunteer Day 2024: Celebrating the heart and impact of volunteering
Celebrated every year on 5 December, International Volunteer Day (IVD) looks to recognise and celebrate the efforts of volunteers and inspire more individuals to dedicate their time and skills to causes that matter.
Making Space is proud to join the global celebration of volunteers - the inspiring individuals who dedicate their time, energy, and talents to making a difference. Volunteers are the backbone of countless communities, and at Making Space, we are incredibly grateful for their contributions that change lives every day.
CELEBRATING OUR VOLUNTEERS
Earlier this year, we honoured the incredible efforts of our volunteers at a special event held at The People’s History Museum in Manchester. The day was a testament to their passion and commitment, showcasing the transformative impact they have on the people and services we support. Check out the video from the event:
Our volunteers have also shared their experiences, with many saying that volunteering gives them a strong sense of purpose, the chance to meet new people, and opportunities to learn and grow. In our most recent survey, they rated their experience an impressive 4.29 out of 5 - a reflection of the meaningful impact volunteering has on both their lives and the communities they serve.
At Making Space, volunteers play a vital role not only in making a difference to people’s lives but also in shaping the organisation’s future. Their commitment embodies the spirit of co-production, where volunteers and staff work together to create positive change on an equal footing. Learn more about co-production at Making Space here. Their efforts include:
- Shaping Strategies: Contributing to the Quality and Improvement Strategy to enhance our services.
- Recruitment: Using lived experiences to support the recruitment of employees and Trustees.
- Co-Producing Events: Partnering with us to deliver events like the Our People Awards.
- Peer Reviewing: Providing insights through peer reviews to ensure the highest standards of care.
- Communication: Sharing stories, updates, and insights through newsletters and social media.
Make a difference – join us
We are always looking for passionate individuals to join our volunteer community. Whether you’re seeking a new challenge, want to give back, or know someone who’s interested, we’d love to hear from you. Explore our current volunteer opportunities.
The broader impact of volunteering
Volunteers don’t just help others—they inspire change and create ripples of impact across communities:
1. Building stronger communities: Volunteers bring people together, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. Their efforts address local needs, support vulnerable groups, and create meaningful opportunities for community engagement.
2. Enhancing wellbeing: Volunteering isn’t just about giving—it’s also about receiving. Many volunteers report improved mental and emotional wellbeing through their involvement. Helping others provides a profound sense of satisfaction, connection, and purpose.
3. Skill development: Volunteering offers an excellent opportunity to learn new skills, gain experience, and build networks that benefit both personal and professional growth. It’s also a fantastic way to make friends, join a supportive team, and be part of something that truly makes a difference in people’s lives.
4. Inspiring others: The passion and dedication of volunteers encourage others to get involved. By leading by example, volunteers help foster a culture of giving and community support with a ripple effect that extends far and wide.
To all our volunteers, thank you for your time, dedication, and compassion. You are at the heart of Making Space, and your contributions truly transform lives.
This International Volunteer Day, let’s celebrate the power of volunteering and the incredible change it brings to individuals, families, and communities.
Happy International Volunteer Day!
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