St Basils can’t take all the credit for the 100,000+ young people we have helped since our inception- we rely heavily on the will and passion of our young people to thrive, and our amazing community of supporters and volunteers. We are supported by a team of dedicated volunteers made up from local businesses and community groups. Volunteering Week, held annually between 3rd June – 9th June sheds light on the positives of volunteering and local community heroes making a true difference.
Pictured above: Paragon.
Stats
16% of people in the UK report volunteering at least once a month (about 8.3m people in the UK), and interestingly, volunteers are more likely to answer questions with a positive mindset. Research also has shown that volunteering leads to lower rates of depression and anxiety, reducing stress and isolation whilst increasing positive, relaxed feelings by releasing dopamine. Over 30% of people in the UK are introduced to volunteering via their employer.
Thanks- Paragon
Paragon Banking Group based in Solihull are a fantastic example of corporates getting together to reach a shared goal. Over their partnership with us at St Basils, they have transformed gardens in young peoples accommodations, decorated supported accommodation for Christmas to spread festive cheer, and one member of staff even wrote and published her own book of poetry about hope, with proceeds going towards St Basils. Daryl at Paragon says “It was extremely rewarding to come away from the day knowing that the work we had undertaken was well received and made a difference – meaning the garden could safely support those living at the accommodation. We really hope that as the wild flowers bloom over the warmer months they can be enjoyed by all.”
Thanks- Sue and Alan
Anyone can volunteer, and charities are blessed with long-term supporters from their local community. St Basils superstars Alan and Sue have been volunteering for our organisation for over 20 years, specifically at fundraising events. From attending Christmas Orchestras at the Symphony Hall to buttering 100s of pieces of toast for eager Sleepouters (our flagship fundraiser), Sue and Alan have seen it all. Sue says “I’ve seen St Basils grow into an important major charity for the young homeless, who often through no fault of their own, are out on the streets, where without this charity and the work that it does, these young folk would never survive. For me its been a privilege to help in any way- its so humbling and the best feeling ever to see!”. Their generosity has directly impacted the 4,000+ young people supported by us every year.
Pictured above: Sue and Alan.
Help us
We are always looking for volunteers. From volunteering at our vintage clothing pop-up store in Great Western Arcade, to transforming projects or helping out at our 10+ diverse fundraising events across the year, there’s always something to get involved with. To express your or your companies interest in volunteering, you can reach us at fundraising@stbasils.org.uk