Volunteer Accolades Scheme - 05 June 2008

Mr Mayor, ladies and gentlemen, good evening.

I’d like to begin, by offering my congratulations to Newtownabbey Borough Council. Tonight’s event is part of a year-long celebration of the Council’s 50th anniversary, so congratulations on 50 years of serving the people of Newtownabbey.

We are here this evening to celebrate the work of your volunteers. The Volunteer Accolades Scheme is a wonderful way of recognising the efforts and achievements of those who selflessly dedicate their time and abilities to helping others.

As the poet, Henry Longfellow once said:

“No man or woman is so poor as to have nothing worth giving.”

And that is the real power of volunteering. It is something that anyone can do - no matter what age they are, where they come from, how much they earn or what religious or cultural background they belong to. Volunteering is a wonderful opportunity that is open to all.

For those on the receiving end of voluntary assistance, it is often a lifeline. The vulnerable and the disadvantaged can rely upon volunteers to lessen their sense of isolation, to offer advice and support and to provide practical help.

For those who choose to volunteer, it can be a chance to grow in confidence and acquire new skills. It is also an opportunity to meet new people and forge new friendships. And of course, there is the sense of achievement and satisfaction that comes from helping others.

Volunteering is invaluable on this individual level, but it is also important on a community level. It can contribute to the regeneration and renewal of an area. It can help to create vibrant, energised and safe communities.

Earlier this evening, I met Seamus Kelly – the 2006 Good Relations Volunteer and Overall Volunteer of the Year. Seamus has been volunteering for over 35 years. We need more people like Seamus to give of their time and their skills to help others.

I know that no-one who volunteers does so for recognition or praise. But it is important that their contribution is recognised and praised.

The Volunteer Accolades Scheme gives the people of Newtownabbey the chance to do just that and to nominate local volunteers for an award. There are eight categories and nominations close on the 30th of June. You can pick up a nomination form here this evening and I would urge you to do so.

In closing, I would like to thank all the volunteers here tonight for the work you do. For your time and your energy, your kindness and your generosity.

Thank you.