A TIRELESS and dedicated Stroud volunteer recently won a national award recently.
Home-Start UK's Volunteer Awards, a celebration of the selfless contributions of volunteers, took place on Thursday, January 18, honouring outstanding individuals from across the country.
The event, held online and attended by more than 200 people, showcased the work of volunteers, with each winner receiving a cash prize sponsored by Marsh Charitable Trust, along with a trophy and certificate.
Among the outstanding winners was Liz Ewart-James, Trustee at Home-Start Stroud & Gloucester, who received the coveted volunteer of the year award in the Trustee category.
"Faced with the absence of Home-Starts in her home area of Stroud, Liz took it upon herself to establish a scheme, and her unwavering dedication has been a constant presence ever since.
"Her tireless efforts not only ensured the long-term sustainability of the charity but also left an indelible mark on the families she serves."
Ri Ferrier, director of Home-Start Stroud and Gloucester said: "Having served on the board for so long and running numerous fundraisers, one would expect Liz to have run out of steam – but no, she is now planning on also supporting a vulnerable family through home visiting in addition to her chair role.
"Watching her running in our recent Colour Run fundraiser, completely covered in rainbow colours, with a big grin on her face, made me realize what amazing attributes she brings as our Chair!
"We all are indebted to Liz and all that she brings to our charity.
"We are incredibly proud that she has won this well-deserved award.”
A panel of judges, including Annie McCarthy of Marsh Charitable Trust, Sarah McMullen of The Royal Foundation for Early Childhood, Nicola Hughes of BT Group, and Louise Sansom of Home-Start UK, carefully selected the winners from a pool of inspiring nominees.
Sally Munday, volunteer development manager for Home-Start UK, expressed her gratitude, saying, "Our awards are a perfect opportunity to recognize the incredible achievements of just some of the more than 10,000 Home-Start volunteers and 1,000 Trustees who make a huge difference to families all over the UK.
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