Local councillors across Merton have been getting their hands dirty over the last week and pitching in to help out at various non-profit community organisations
in support of Volunteers’ Week 2011, 1-7 June.
Volunteers’ Week is an annual event that celebrates the fantastic contribution that millions of volunteers make across the UK. The week plays a huge part in raising the profile of the millions of volunteers who regularly contribute to society, while inspiring others to get involved too.
The Mayor of Merton, Councillor Gilli Lewis-Lavender and leader of Merton Council, Councillor Stephen Alambritis each spent half a day at Deen City Farm last Friday washing dishes in the cafeteria. School holidays are the busiest times of year for Deen City Farm so getting volunteers in to help out in the kitchen, particularly at lunch times, is a must.
Leader of Merton Council, Councillor Stephen Alambritis said, “Our local charitable organisations play such a valuable role in Merton’s communities. It was great to see so many families making the most of Deen City Farm during the school holidays and to be a part of the team delivering services on the day.
“Volunteering is extremely rewarding and is a fantastic way to give back to your local community, make new friends and develop new skills. There are all sorts of volunteer opportunities available to suit everyone – contact Volunteer Centre Merton to find out about the variety of opportunities available in your local area.”
Ben Cheetham, Manager at Deen City Farm said: “School holidays are always busier at the farm compared to term-time, especially when the weather is as good as it was last week. We are lucky that we have no shortage of volunteers wanting to assist at the Farm, usually with the livestock, horses or in the garden. However, it is not quite as easy to find extra pairs of hands in the kitchen, so Friday’s wonderfully-willing helpers were much appreciated.’
To find out about local volunteer vacancies in Merton visit http://www.volunteercentremerton.org.uk or phone 020 8640 7355. For more information about Volunteers Week 2011 visit http://www.volunteersweek.org.uk
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