Tireless volunteers have been hailed for the ‘unique’ and ‘critical’ role they play in helping a leading charity deliver its vital work.
East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) organised a special thank you day at Norwich City’s Top of the Terrace suite.
Nearly 200 supporters attended the event to meet staff and hear updates, while enjoying lunch and taking part in a fun Antiques Roadshow game. They also used pens and instruments to participate in a special art and music therapy activity.
Among those to convey his thanks was EACH’s Interim Chief Executive and Director of Fundraising and Communications, Kevin Clements.
He said: “These events are a great reminder of the wonderful people that generously commit their time to support us.
“Without them, we wouldn’t be in a position to deliver the very best world-class care and support for children, young people and families across East Anglia.
“Every single one of our volunteers has played some part, and we’re so grateful.
“People often think the worst when they hear the word ‘hospice’, but we provide a very holistic model of care for the entire family, which often goes on for many years.
“It takes a great team of people – very much including our army of volunteers – to help us achieve that, and we’re so grateful.
“They’re so important to us and we couldn’t possibly not acknowledge their work and dedication. It’s the bare minimum we can do to say thank you.”
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 18 Norfolk shops, as well as its Retail Distribution Centre, in Thetford.
Director of Retail Ian Nicolson said: “Time is precious and that phrase is perhaps never truer than at EACH.
“We care for and support families when time is desperately precious, and we help them create memories at a time that’s unimaginably difficult.
“It’s also true of our volunteers, who somehow find the time, amid their busy lives, to give something back to EACH.
“Without them helping us raise what we do, we wouldn’t be in a position to deliver such outstanding care and support, and that makes them very special and unique.
“They play a critical role, and, for that, we’re so thankful.”
The thank you day took place on 12th September, and similar events are taking place in Ipswich and Newmarket in October and November respectively.
Pictures: Karen Self/EACH
