Wed 16th November, 2011
Hundreds of students had the chance to sign up to help the community at the Students’ Union’s Volunteering fairs in Bedford and Luton.
Some 25 community groups and projects showcased their work in Bedford, with 34 stands in Luton. They included Victim Support, Keech Hospice Care, Bedfordshire Football Association and homeless charity NOAH Enterprise.
Mary Duffy from Guide Dogs to the Blind said: “There has been quite a lot of interest. We’re hoping that people can offer a couple of hours here and there – there are so many different tasks that they can help with.”
A representative from the Bedford and District Cerebral Palsy Society added: “The people who came along seemed really willing to sign up and make a commitment.”
Local coach Lance Haggith, who was awarded the Unsung Hero at the Sports Personality of the Year in 2010, was on hand to launch Team Beds and Luton’s Sports Makers programme. It is hoping to recruit nearly 700 new Sport Maker volunteers to make sport happen.
Fair organiser Andrea Thorogood said: “The fair gave students and staff the opportunity to meet some of our local community organisations, find out about their work and volunteering roles and projects. We received lots of positive feedback from both the organisations and people attending.
“This is the perfect time for students, especially those in their first and second years, to get involved in volunteering or student lead projects to gain experience for their CVs. It also helps develop people in other areas, using their skills and enthusiasm to help these worthwhile projects.”
Latest news» 2011» November» Students sign up for local volunteering
