Join in this year’s 40th anniversary Volunteers’ Week!

Volunteers are the lifeblood of brass banding so it’s worth noting that this year’s Volunteers’ Week celebrates its 40th anniversary.

The Volunteers’ Week initiative started in 1984 and in Scotland the campaign is led by Volunteer Scotland.

Running from the first Monday in June, it is the time when volunteering organisations and groups are encouraged to thank their supporters and activists, past and present, and celebrate and recognise their volunteering efforts.

From trustees to befrienders and fundraisers, it’s a great time to think about the fantastic contribution all volunteers make.

Throughout the week 3-9 June, there will be a wide range of events, from awards ceremonies and coffee mornings, to casual gatherings. The week concludes with ‘The Big Help Out,’ encouraging more people to join the volunteering community.

Events can be a great way to bring people together during Volunteers’ Week. There are many ways you can celebrate volunteers in person or online or even inspire someone new to volunteer. Here are just a few suggestions:

Recognition or Awards Evening: For Volunteers to hear from those they have helped and supported in their roles and be recognised formally for it can mean a lot to them. A recognition or awards evening can be a nice way to do that.

Volunteer Recruitment Fair or Open Day: Volunteers’ Week is a good time to generate new interest in your volunteering opportunities, reach potential volunteers in your area as well as highlight the efforts of your current volunteers. Hosting a recruitment fair with other local organisations or groups or an open day could be a great way for people to learn about the opportunities you have available and find out more about your organisation.

A Coffee Morning: Hosting a Coffee Morning, whether in person or virtually, offers a relaxed and informal setting to show appreciation for your volunteers, without the need for complex arrangements.

For a range of Volunteers’ Week campaign resources, visit this website.