Charity Hosts Glasgow Celebration Event to Say ‘Thank You’ to Local Volunteers

Over 100 people attended the day-long event in person, which took place at Royal College in Glasgow City Centre, with others joining in via video link from across the West of Scotland.

The charity’s 1632 volunteers and 4600 micro volunteers bring around £2m of value to the organisation, enabling it to support the one in five people affected by chest, heart and stroke conditions across Scotland.

Volunteers were welcomed by Derek Mackie, Vice Chair of the Volunteering Strategy Group and were thanked by members of the senior team at the charity, who highlighted the impact the volunteers have made across retail, fundraising, and services.  Volunteers were also treated to refreshments and took part in a fun fitness session and quiz.

Speaking in her presentation to volunteers, Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland Chief Executive, Jane-Claire Judson, said: “We wanted to do something special to recognise the incredible contribution to the charity and the amazing difference our volunteers make to people’s lives.

“After a challenging couple of years, it’s been wonderful to be able to bring people together to show our appreciation for the time, skills, commitment and dedication our volunteers give to help make sure there’s no life half lived in Scotland.

“Our volunteers are at the heart of everything we do.  Whether it’s volunteering with our Kindness Service to make sure people don’t feel isolated and alone, or keeping our fabulous stores running, our volunteers are committed to making sure our community services and peer groups are supporting people. They go above and beyond at our events across the country and provide valuable input on our internal working groups.

“Without them, we simply couldn’t reach the thousands of people affected by chest, heart and stroke conditions across Scotland.”

Svita Chernetska, a fashion stylist, buyer and boutique owner in her native Ukraine found her perfect volunteering role as a retail assistant in Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland’s charity boutique in Bothwell.  She shares why giving back to the community is so important to her.

Svita commented; “I volunteer in the store twice a week.  The staff and volunteers are so lovely.  They make me feel welcome and it has been so good for helping me with my English.

“When I left Ukraine, I had to leave everything behind.  I felt alone.  Volunteering with CHSS has allowed me to give something back, but has also given me something too.  I feel part of the community, which makes me feel good.”