The event brought together 120 exceptional HCC volunteers to acknowledge the valuable contributions they make to their communities. Hosted by the Chairman of Hertfordshire County Council, Cllr Annie Brewster, and the Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, Mr Robert Voss CBE CStj, the evening marked the start of the Coronation celebrations, recognising volunteers as a vital part of the services that the council provides to residents in Hertfordshire.
Nine volunteers from Services for Young People (SfYP) were nominated as ‘volunteer champions’ for their dedication in supporting the delivery of services to empower and support young people. SfYP volunteers are from a range of diverse backgrounds and generously devote their time and energy to support young people in different ways.
Three SfYP volunteers with Cllr Annie Brewster
The volunteers work alongside SfYP staff at our youth work projects to provide support with important issues, such as healthy relationships and personal safety. Several of the volunteers had attended SfYP projects as young people in the past so have first-hand experience of the difference the projects make to the lives of young people. Becoming a volunteer has given them the opportunity to share what they learnt and become positive role models.
SfYP volunteers also support young people to get their voice heard through our youth councils and forums, Young Commissioners Project and the Who Not What LGBT+ group and help train young people doing the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award with SfYP.
An SfYP Youth Support Worker who attended the event said:
“The celebration was superb… The hosts welcomed and spoke with almost all of the volunteers and had great conversations that made them feel included... What impressed me most was after they spoke with the volunteers, they mentioned their names and the places they volunteered at.”
Volunteering with SfYP is rewarding way to get involved in the local community and promote the positive contributions made by young people. Volunteers receive comprehensive training and ongoing support from the qualified staff in our projects.
To learn more about becoming an SfYP volunteer, please visit the volunteering with SfYP webpage.
