April News

Do Volunteers Have Rights? Volunteers don't have a contract and usually carry out their activities in the context of a volunteer agreement, meaning no employment rights, but other protections still apply.

Dedicated GoVolHerts volunteer Opal was recently recognised for her outstanding commitment and contribution in her roles with both GoVolHerts and North Herts & Stevenage Community Transport Scheme. Joining North Herts & Stevenage CVS after retirement and bringing three decades worth of exceptional organisational skills, attention to detail, and a genuine passion to both roles, Opal is an absolute gem! We were delighted to join with NHCVS colleagues to present Opal with a certificate of recognition and, thanks to a successful nomination to Room to Reward, a free hotel stay, recognising the significant impact of her volunteering in our community. Elwyn Williams, who has been a volunteer driver with North Herts & Stevenage Community Transport Scheme since March 2017, was also recognised with an award. Holding the record for the most transport bookings two years in a row, Elwyn completed over 236 bookings last year! A big thank you to all our amazing volunteers! About Room to Reward The charity Room to Reward recognises volunteers across the country quietly driving positive change in ways many of us take for granted. Transforming unsold hotel rooms from over 900 partner hotels into meaningful gifts for dedicated volunteers. Any organisation that relies upon volunteers can apply and nominate outstanding people. Find out how to nominate at https://www.roomtoreward.org/ Interested in volunteering with your local Community Transport Scheme? Browse our many Hertfordshire Community Transport opportunities North Herts & Stevenage Community Transport Scheme is looking for another admin volunteer, as well as drivers.

Retail Volunteering: A Vital Contribution to the Charity Sector and Community Retail volunteering is an essential part of the charitable sector, offering a range of benefits to both the individual volunteer and the charity they serve. With retail operations playing a key role in supporting charitable causes, volunteers make a significant impact by helping to raise funds, raise awareness, and foster a strong sense of community. Why Retail Volunteering is Crucial for Charities The retail sector is a significant revenue generator for many charitable organisations. By volunteering in a retail environment, individuals contribute directly to fundraising efforts that support vital community services, research, and projects. Charity shops offer a space where pre-loved goods are sold to benefit various causes, and volunteers are at the heart of this operation. According to recent figures, charity retail raised around £300 million annually in the UK alone. That’s a considerable amount that goes directly toward funding essential programs, such as supporting vulnerable individuals, providing healthcare services, and promoting sustainability. In fact, without volunteers, many of these charity shops would simply not function at the capacity needed to drive such impactful change. Moreover, the retail sector provides a unique opportunity to connect with others in the community. Whether interacting with customers or fellow volunteers, it allows individuals to be part of a larger movement, knowing that their time and effort are making a positive difference. Retail’s Impact on the Charity Sector and Public Charity retail plays an indispensable role in the charity sector’s sustainability. It provides an avenue for many people to donate items they no longer need, which can then be sold to fund charitable work. Moreover, these shops often offer low-cost goods to the public, contributing to affordable shopping options for those in need. But the benefits go beyond financial contributions. Charity shops serve as hubs for social interaction and can increase public awareness of various causes. In doing so, they create a space for individuals to learn about the important work being done within the community. Five Retail Volunteering Roles Currently Available St Albans Lions club Retail Volunteer for Upcycling House at The Depot Shop Keech Hospice Care Retail Assistant Volunteer - Tring Cats Protection Shop Volunteer How You Can Get Involved If you're ready to make a positive impact, browse the available retail roles and sign up today. Your time and effort can help a charity thrive, supporting both the public and those in need across Hertfordshire. By getting involved in retail volunteering, you’re not only contributing to an essential service but also gaining valuable experiences that will benefit you and the people around you.