Home-Start UK’s Volunteer Awards, a celebration of the selfless contributions of volunteers, took place on Thursday, 18th January, honoring outstanding individuals from across the country. The event, held online and attended by more than 200 people, showcased the exemplary work of volunteers, with each winner receiving a cash prize generously sponsored by Marsh Charitable Trust, along with a trophy and certificate.
Sally Munday, Volunteer Development Manager for Home-Start UK, expressed her gratitude, saying, “Our Volunteer Awards are a perfect opportunity to recognize the incredible achievements of just some of the more than 10,000 Home-Start volunteers and 1,000 Trustees who make a huge difference to families all over the UK. It’s a small thank you for the amazing impact they have made in their communities.”
Among the outstanding winners was Liz Ewart-James, Trustee at Home-Start Stroud & Gloucester, who received the coveted Volunteer of the Year award in the Trustee category.
Liz’s remarkable journey with Home-Start began over 20 years ago when she was inspired by the organization’s ethos and committed herself to making a difference in Gloucestershire. Faced with the absence of Home-Starts in her home area of Stroud, Liz took it upon herself to establish a scheme, and her unwavering dedication has been a constant presence ever since. Her tireless efforts not only ensured the long-term sustainability of the charity but also left an indelible mark on the families she serves.
A distinguished panel of judges, including Annie McCarthy of Marsh Charitable Trust, Sarah McMullen of The Royal Foundation for Early Childhood, Nicola Hughes of BT Group, and Louise Sansom of Home-Start UK, carefully selected the winners from a pool of inspiring nominees.
Ri Ferrier, Director of Home-Start Stroud and Gloucester commented “Having served on the Board for so long and running numerous fundraisers, one would expect Liz to have run out of steam – but no, she is now planning on also supporting a vulnerable family through home visiting in addition to her Chair role. Watching her running in our recent Colour Run fundraiser, completely covered in rainbow colours, with a big grin on her face, made me realize what amazing attributes she brings as our Chair! We all are indebted to Liz and all that she brings to our charity. We are incredibly proud that she has won this well-deserved award.”