Volunteers praisedby cancer charity

More than 40 volunteers were invited to a thank you event at Stormont Estate on Wednesday.

Guests were given a guided tour of Parliament Buildings by Paul Frew MLA, followed by a presentation during which each volunteer was presented with a unique gift of a power jar specially designed by young people affected by cancer on a recent charity residential.

The power jars were individually handed painted and inside contained an inspirational message from the children and young people who wanted to personally thank the charity’s volunteers for all that they do.

Cllr Trevor Beattie from Randalstown, who has volunteered for Cancer Fund for Children for four years, was delighted to receive such an original and thoughtful gift.

He said: “The thoughts behind each message from the children reflects the value of volunteering to the charity and makes all our efforts so very worthwhile.

“Every week in Northern Ireland another three children, teenagers and young adults (0-24) are diagnosed with cancer.

“Cancer Fund for Children works with over 350 families and 800 children and young people providing them with practical, financial and emotional support as well as free therapeutic short breaks.”

Naomi Braithwaite, Community Family Fundraiser said: “We are so fortunate to have a wonderful group of volunteers who give up their time and skills so that we can continue to provide families whose lives have been impacted by cancer with vital support in their home, in the community and in hospital.

“Volunteer Week is the perfect time to celebrate volunteers and also inspire others to get involved.”

Over 21 million people volunteer in the UK at least once a year contributing an estimated £23.9bn to the UK economy whilst making a big difference to individuals and communities. Cancer Fund for Children has a range of volunteering opportunities available from helping at fundraising events, to assisting in the office or volunteering specialist skills such as youth work, complementary therapies and play therapy at Daisy Lodge Therapeutic Short Break Centre.

For more information about volunteering opportunities please contact Cancer Fund for Children please call 028 9080 5599 or email [email protected].