Hard-working Volunteer Rewarded For His Dedication With Care And Compassion

Published on: 24 Jan, 2018
Updated on: 24 Jan, 2018

A hard-working volunteer has been rewarded for his dedication with a two-night stay by Room to Reward, a hospitality charity created to give something back to those who do so much, for so many, and ask for nothing in return.

Top volunteer Jason Wiggins pictured with Lorraine Yates from Voluntary Action South West Surrey’s Welcome to Volunteering project.

Volunteer Jason Wiggins was initially referred to the Welcome to Volunteering project, co-ordinated by Voluntary Action South West Surrey.

The project gives invaluable one-to-one support to people across the boroughs of Guildford and Waverley to access volunteering opportunities.

It helps people who wish to volunteer their time, skills and services, but who often need additional support to make that happen.

Lorraine Yates from Welcome to Volunteering has supported Jason, finding him additional volunteering roles to those he has already been involved in.

Lorraine said: “Jason spoke at Voluntary Action’s 2017 conference and at our annual meeting advocating the mental and physical benefits of volunteering.

“He is a well-respected, reliable and committed volunteer. He supports other vulnerable volunteers with care and compassion. He truly deserves this award, for the selfless way in which he supports local organisations and his community.”

In fact, Jason has volunteered in numerous roles over many years. He is currently volunteering in a charity shop in Godalming where he was a founder member of the team.

He also runs a user-led mental health support group. Jason set up this group when the funding and resources were withdrawn because he recognised the need and wanted it to continue.

Jason also supports the running of a weekly drop-in for people experiencing mental ill health issues.

Lorraine said: “He always arrives on time, is happy and cheerful and always on-hand to support members of the group in their hour of need. He shows genuine compassion and empathy towards everyone he meets.”

Voluntary Action South West Surrey’s recent Big Lottery funding success will allow it to continue its Welcome to Volunteering project for another five years.

For more details of the Welcome to Volunteering project and how it may help you or someone you know, contact co-coordinator Lorraine Yates on 07775 556772.

Click here for a previous story on The Guildford Dragon NEWS.