Hertfordshire Volunteer Fair and Big Help Out Event, 7 June, Hitchin

As we come into a new year, many of us naturally become reflective. The festive season often highlights how much we value connection. Time spent with family, friends, neighbours and elderly loved ones can remind us how important our own community really is. When that season ends and routines return... working from home, studying independently, quieter evenings... the contrast can feel surprisingly stark. While New Year’s resolutions often focus on personal goals like fitness or productivity, one of the most meaningful intentions we can set is to reconnect: with others, with our community and with a sense of purpose. Reviewing What Matters Most Taking a moment to reflect on the past year can be hugely beneficial on how to move forward for the year ahead. Thinking about what gave you energy, joy, memories, excitement, worry, dread... For many, the answer isn’t found in ticking off achievements, but in experiences we share with others. Volunteering can be a natural extension of those reflections. It offers a way to carry forward what you value into the new year, whether that’s connection, contribution, learning or simply doing something that feels worthwhile. Volunteering as a Fresh Start Volunteering doesn’t have to mean a huge commitment or a complete lifestyle change (although it can if you want to!). It can be as simple as giving a little time regularly in a way that fits around your life. What matters is the intention behind it. Getting involved in your community can help you to: Feel more connected and less isolated Meet people you might not otherwise cross paths with Learn new skills or rediscover old ones Build confidence and a sense of belonging Create structure and meaning in quieter routines Make friends Explore where you live and find out what is going on There are many different ways to volunteer, from practical support like admin and computer based roles, to creative projects such as decorating youth clubs or garden work to social roles. Social roles tend to focus more on the companionship than an 'outcome', such as befriending which offers just that to those who could otherwise be or feel quite isolated from the rest of the community. Small Steps, Big Impact Befriending is just one example of how volunteering can bring people together through simple connection. Whether it’s chatting face-to-face, over the phone or online, companionship-based volunteering reminds us that presence alone can be enough to make someone's day. As you step into the new year, consider what you want to carry forward and what you might like to add. Giving back, even in small ways, can be a grounding and hopeful way to begin a new chapter. Check out our latest roles - Volunteer in your community | GoVolHerts

At GoVolHerts, we are delighted to mark International Volunteers Day on Friday 5th December 2025, a special moment to recognise and thank the hundreds of volunteers who give their time, energy and compassion every day. Volunteers are the heartbeat of our communities, quietly stepping up in so many ways: listening, encouraging, supporting, and connecting. Their contributions may sometimes feel small, but together they create meaningful change. Whether it’s dropping in to help at a community hub, supporting someone facing difficult times, or lending a hand at local events, each act of service matters. This year, we shine a spotlight on the difference volunteering makes by showcasing the incredible work of North Herts & Stevenage Community Transport and Watford & Three Rivers Getting Together Social Clubs. Through the care, kindness and commitment of their volunteers, we see stronger communities, new friendships, better connections and brighter days. We also recognise that volunteering rewards the volunteers themselves, growth, satisfaction, belonging and purpose often follow. We are proud to collaborate on this project with our partners Community Help Hertfordshire (CHH) who join us in celebrating the spirit of volunteering. Together we invite everyone to reflect on how they might contribute, whether it’s a few hours, a regular commitment or simply offering help where it’s needed. To all our volunteers: THANK YOU! Your time, your heart and your drive make our community a better place. On 5th December and every day, we salute you!

Trustees have the overall legal responsibility for a charity. The law describes charity trustees as ‘the persons having the general control and management of the administration of a charity’ (Charities Act 2011, section 177). A trustee role is an opportunity to use your professional skills and life experiences to make a difference to a cause you believe in. Trustees work collectively to make decisions of behalf of their charity. Trustees are elected or appointed, usually for a fixed period (usually three years) - this will be outlined in the governance documents of the charity. Some organisations may use other term, such as ‘Governors’, for trustee roles. Trustees are required to operate within the bounds of the governance documents for their charity and also within the law - particularly the Trustee Act 2000, Insolvency Acts, Companies Acts and Charity Acts. As trustees are also volunteers, they won’t be paid for the role, but like any other volunteer, should be reimbursed for out-of-pocket expenses. Can I be a Trustee? Becoming a trustee is open to most individuals, typically those aged 18 or older (or 16 for Charitable Incorporated Organisations – CIOs). However, certain situations, such as prior disqualification as a trustee or company director, undischarged bankruptcy status, or specific unspent criminal convictions, render one ineligible. Depending on the organisation's requirements, some trustees may need a Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check, especially if their responsibilities involve sensitive work. Beyond meeting eligibility criteria, a charity trustee should align with the organisation's objectives, demonstrating honesty and integrity. While boards seek trustees with 'hard skills' like legal and financial expertise, they also value 'soft' skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and empathy towards the charity's beneficiaries. Individuals with firsthand experience can offer unique insights, enriching the board's perspective. Diversity within trustee boards is crucial for effective decision-making. A diverse board embraces differing perspectives, while a board with same-profile trustees risks groupthink. An effective trustee board recognises when to seek external professional advice to complement existing expertise. Want more information on being a Trustee? Take a look through Resource Library.