Voulnteers Making A Difference

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Ceremony to honour Ealing helpers

An 18-year-old wheelchair user, three volunteers who together have clocked up a remarkable 64 years helping homeless people in Ealing, and a ‘brilliant team’ supporting elderly people in Northolt, were among more than 100 volunteers honoured for their selfless dedication to the local community at a Volunteer Awards Ceremony held on Friday 4 November at the Ramada Ealing London Hotel in Ealing Common.

The Mayor of Ealing Councillor John Gallagher presented Certificates of Exceptional Achievement at the ceremony, which marked the 35th anniversary of Ealing CVS and CSV Make A Difference Day.

Among those honoured at the ceremony was Jagjit Chuk, who volunteers at PACE. Jagjit was just 13 when he began attending PACE, a sports club in Southall for people with disabilities. Last year he became a volunteer team leader at the age of 18. His supervisor Krishna Birdy said: ‘Jagjit has really progressed since he joined PACE. He has achieved a Level 1 Football Coaching NVQ, and he’s captain of our Power Chair football team PACE United. Jagjit is very determined and tries his best at all times. He never lets his muscular dystrophy get in the way and was successful in reaching the national boccia finals at Sheffield. We couldn’t do what we do without the help of Jagjit and the fantastic volunteers who enable members of the club to achieve their full potential. Everyone at the club has a brilliant time, and it’s all down to the volunteers who make it such fun.’

Awards were also presented to 35 volunteers nominated by Ealing CVS for their outstanding contribution to the local community since Ealing CVS was established 35 years ago. Ali Osman, a founder member of Sofale, which supports the Somali community in Ealing said: ‘It is a great pleasure to accept the award. My contribution at Sofale would not have been possible without the support of Ealing Volunteer Centre. They have always been ready to offer advice, and they have sent us exceptional volunteers to help the children improve their maths and English.’

Debbie Davey, Service Manager at Ealing Mediation Service, a charity that helps neighbours in dispute resolve their differences, was named Volunteer Supervisor of the Year. Lizzie Saunders, Manager of Ealing Volunteer Centre, said: ‘Debbie provides exceptional support and encouragement to her volunteers. The volunteering programme at Ealing Mediation Service is a model of good practice. It’s a win-win situation, with both Ealing Mediation Service and the volunteers benefitting through volunteering.’

The morning was brought to an end with a deeply moving performance by members of the IMPACT Theatre Company. The performers, all adults with learning disabilities, used Makaton Sign Language for their dance ‘Something inside so strong’.

Angela Bell, chair of Ealing CVS trustees, summed up the mood of the morning: ‘It has been truly inspiring to see some of the many volunteers who make such a difference to our local community – by giving their time freely they have helped others and changed their own lives for the better. I am delighted we have been able to celebrate the 35th anniversary of Ealing CVS, which has given outstanding support to community groups in Ealing over the past 35 years. This anniversary reminds us that volunteering isn't new – it's an often unseen part of all our lives, and it continues because of people's innate kindness and care for one another.’

8th November 2011