Two environmentalists who take weekly unpaid leave to volunteer and a trustee who has ensured the smooth running of Citizens Advice Bureaux across north Wales are to receive national recognition for their work next week.

A woman who has spent the past 25 years raising money for hospital equipment and running an anti-bullying initiative, and a community group helping local youngsters to feel better about themselves are among the 2010 Wales Volunteers of the Year.

The annual highlight of the volunteering calendar will take place on Thursday 10 June, with the presentation ceremony of the awards run by Wales Council for Voluntary Action (WCVA) and supported by CCLA Investment Management Ltd. 

A total of 16 winners in the five nomination categories of individuals, young people (under 25 years), groups, ‘green’ volunteers and trustees will be presented with their awards at the ceremony to be held in Cardiff Castle.  All nominees will also receive a certificate of high commendation.

‘The Wales Volunteer of the Year Award acknowledges the dedication of volunteers who have helped make the biggest difference in the communities in which they live,’ said Graham Benfield OBE, Chief Executive of WCVA.
 
‘These are people who are recognised for their initiative, dedication or their personal qualities.  They are an inspiration, and the quality of nominations each year shows us just how strong the voluntary sector and volunteering ethos is in Wales.’

CCLA Market Development Manager Mark Davies added: ‘Sometimes it can seem like no one does anything for nothing these days.  These awards are a powerful reminder that it is simply not true, which is why CCLA is so pleased to support them.’

More details here.