Willow marked this year’s Volunteers’ Week by celebrating the incredible contribution of volunteers across the charity, from our retail shops and fundraising events to Special Days and more.
Throughout the week, teams recognised the time, energy and dedication our volunteers give so generously. Our shops in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire held their own celebrations, with staff and managers finding thoughtful ways to show their appreciation.
As an extra special thank you, seven Willow volunteers were also nominated to receive a well-earned break through Room to Reward. Room to Reward is a national scheme that partners with hotels and holiday parks to donate unsold rooms to volunteers who go above and beyond.
Each recipient has been awarded a complimentary one or two-night hotel stay, with many participating venues adding thoughtful extras to make the experience even more memorable.
This year’s recipients of a Room to Reward stay were:
• Eleanor Dixon – Events and Special Days volunteer
• Graham Twigg – Fundraising volunteer
• Jan O’Brien – Longstanding Fundraising volunteer
• Steve Whyman – Fundraising, Events and Special Days volunteer
• Sonia Sanson – Retail volunteer
• Peter Pritchett – Retail volunteer
• Tracey Gellatly – Retail volunteer
Graham Twigg, one of this year’s recipients, said:
“I’m still a little overwhelmed by this lovely surprise. Thank you to all at Willow who do such a fantastic job for such a fantastic charity, making so much difference in people’s lives. I’m so proud to be a part of that. I cannot tell you how much it means to me to receive this recognition.”
Volunteers play a vital role in every part of Willow’s work and Volunteers’ Week offers a chance to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who gives their time to help make Special Days possible.