Celebrating volunteering opportunities in Three Rivers
As national Volunteers Week begins, it has been revealed that grant funding of more than £51,000 has been secured by organisations across Three Rivers.
Volunteers Week runs from 1 to the 7 June as an opportunity celebrate the contribution volunteers make to communities and say thank you.
According to Three Rivers District Council there are currently more than 200 voluntary and community groups operating within the district. During 2022-23 the partnership between Watford & Three Rivers Trust saw five new organisations set up and £51,375 granted to 22 voluntary organisations.
Supporting the voluntary sector is a key priority for the district council – which works in close partnership with Watford & Three Rivers Trust to develop and support local volunteering.
Council Leader Cllr Sarah Nelmes said: “The theme of this year’s Volunteers’ Week, is celebrate and inspire which is very fitting for the current climate. The amazing work of volunteers to support communities is not only the backbone of our district – it is the beating heart of it too. As a council we know the work of voluntary sector is irreplaceable.
“I volunteer at my local community centre, including at the lunch club, and work as a marshal at the Herts Pride, which Three Rivers is a proud sponsor of. Volunteering is extremely rewarding and if you are thinking of volunteering, then please do it.
“In the current cost-of-living crisis volunteers continue to mobilise to support residents at a time of need whether this has been opening their venue as a warm space, providing and delivering food parcels or visiting an isolated member of the community just for a chat. Thank you for all that you do.”
Huwaydah Malik, CVS Leader for Three Rivers at Watford and Three Rivers Trust said: “Volunteers’ willingness to give their time and service is greatly appreciated. Their continued support, energy and commitment to our communities makes such a positive difference and allows many organisations to fulfil their mission and serve the people within our community. We could not do what we do without them.”
Watford & Three Rivers Trust volunteers portal is free community platform for voluntary groups and charities to advertise community events and for people to search for volunteering opportunities.