Volunteers were praised for their kindness and dedication during a special celebration event organised by East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
Just over 150 people attended the thank you day, which took place at Norwich City Football Club.
They had the chance to meet EACH staff and trustees, find out more about the charity’s work and hear from a mum whose son receives care at The Nook, in Framingham Earl.
Among those to convey their thanks was EACH Chief Executive Kevin Clements.
“I’m always amazed and inspired by the unique and deeply personal reasons people start volunteering,” he said.
“It’s truly incredible, and we’re very much the sum of our parts.
“Quite simply, we wouldn’t be able to run three outstanding hospices if we didn’t have so many volunteers working tirelessly behind the scenes.
“Together, they form an extraordinary community of people willing to come together and contribute to a truly worthwhile cause.
“I’m constantly humbled by their willingness to help – to give their time, energy and expertise – and it has a profound, lasting impact that’s deeply appreciated.
“Days like this give us an opportunity to say thank you and celebrate their vast contribution.”
The volunteers help in various ways, including giving their time to support EACH’s care, facilities, fundraising and events teams. Many others help in one of the charity’s 22 Norfolk shops, as well as its Retail Distribution Centre, in Thetford.
In addition to being welcomed and thanked by Kevin, they heard updates from Lucy Brumpton, EACH’s Head of Care Transformation and Development, and Director of Retail Ian Nicolson.
They were given fundraising and financial updates, while also having the chance to use balls of wool and coloured beads to participate in a special art therapy activity.
Another highlight was hearing from mum Maxine Foster, whose 12-year-old son, Austin, has Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
The thank you day took place on 17th September, and similar events are due to take place in the coming weeks in Cambridge, Ipswich and Colchester.
Pictures: Karen Self/EACH
