A DEDICATED team of volunteers who give their time to support people affected by homelessness in Mossley have been celebrated with a special evening of food and thanks.
Emmaus Mossley marked Volunteers’ Week with a pie supper at its community home, bringing together 33 volunteers and trustees alongside staff and residents supported by the charity.
The event on Thursday, June 4, was a chance for the charity to recognise the contribution of the people who help keep its work going – from charity shop volunteers and van drivers to upcyclers, trustees and those who support Emmaus remotely.
Volunteer Collette said the evening was a chance to celebrate the community spirit that makes volunteering so rewarding.
“It was really nice having everyone together and a privilege to be served a beautiful pie supper and cake. I love working alongside all the people at Emmaus and the ethos of the organisation is the main reason why I contribute my time each week.”
Emmaus Mossley currently has 86 volunteers supporting its work to help people overcome homelessness through a combination of accommodation, support and opportunities to rebuild their lives.
For members of the charity’s Upcycle Group, volunteering also offers the chance to learn new skills, be creative and make a difference.
Ann, who is part of the group, said: “It gives me a sense of pride and purpose knowing that I’m making something that somebody else wants, all whilst helping fund Emmaus. We make some fantastic stuff and have lots of fun. I’m not just helping Emmaus, they help me too.”
The celebration was supported by Action Together’s Tameside Volunteer Celebration Fund and formed part of Volunteers’ Week – the annual UK-wide campaign celebrating the contribution of volunteers.
Ant Hopkinson, CEO of Emmaus Mossley, said: “Our volunteers contribute an estimated 320 hours every week and that amounts to more than 15,000 volunteer hours annually! Behind every one of those hours is a person making a conscious choice to give their time, skills, energy and care to others.
“When people invest in their community, that community becomes stronger, and in turn, that creates more opportunities for people to connect, contribute and thrive. To every volunteer who gives their time, thank you. The impact of your contribution reaches far beyond what any statistic can measure.”