Inspiring Volunteer Awards Winners and Gallery 2024
In celebration of Volunteer’s Week 2024, we hosted the Inspiring Volunteering Awards ceremony at the Fraser Centre on June 7th. The event was graced by the presence of approximately 100 attendees, including guests, finalists, and their nominators, all of whom were treated to a delightful supper. The ceremony was a heartfelt tribute to the volunteers of East Lothian, filled with appreciation and admiration. This page provides a comprehensive overview of the event, including information about the winners and finalists, a photo gallery, and a special note of thanks to everyone who contributed to its success. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners this year, and to all the nominees – your exceptional contributions make you the best in our eyes, and each one of you deserves recognition!
The winners of the Inspiring Volunteering Awards 2024 awards are as follows:
VCEL’s Volunteer of the Year
James Graham with Volunteer Centre East Lothian
James has been an exceptional volunteer at VCEL since joining in October. His dedication is evident in his work, from stocking shelves to keeping the pantry organised. He goes beyond his duties, taking on projects like improving our courtyard and stepping in when other volunteers are unavailable.
James supports his fellow volunteers, training them and fostering an inclusive environment. His work ethic and genuine warmth have earned him the respect of the community. The positive feedback we’ve received speaks to his kindness, generosity, and commitment to making a difference.
Community Volunteer of the Year
Malcolm Fairgrieve | General Assistant & Committee Member with Macmerry Miners Club
Malcolm, a dedicated volunteer at the Macmerry Miners Welfare & Community Hub, devotes 15 hours weekly to the Hub and also volunteers at the Roots & Fruits charity. He’s a key part of the Macmerry community and the Macmerry litter squad.
At the Hub, Malcolm assists with cafe setup and cleanup, helps at functions, volunteers for ‘tidy up days’, participates actively in committee meetings, and maintains the Hub garden. His tireless efforts and infectious enthusiasm have made him a role model for young people. Malcolm’s commitment to his community extends beyond the Hub, as he also volunteers at Root & Fruits, further demonstrating his dedication to supporting his local community.
Environmental & Education Volunteer of the Year
Ryan Jeffries | Digital Support Volunteer with People Know How
Ryan is an exceptional dedication to digital education at the Fisherrow digital group. As a final-year physics student with IT aspirations, Ryan’s technical expertise and community care have been vital to the group’s success. He’s not just a tutor, but a friend who creates a welcoming environment for all learners.
Ryan’s approach goes beyond technical assistance, recognising the link between digital proficiency and wellbeing. He infuses sessions with fun activities, fosters a sense of camaraderie, and treats everyone with respect. His adaptability in handling diverse learning styles and challenges is commendable.
In essence, Ryan’s contributions exemplify the transformative power of volunteering, nurturing a sense of community and empowerment. His dedication serves as an inspiration, reminding us of the profound impact individuals can have when they commit to supporting others. We’re grateful for Ryan’s invaluable contributions to the Fisherrow digital group and the broader community.
Health & Wellbeing Volunteer of the Year
Taryn Wallis | Ward Helper with NHS Lothian
Taryn Wallis, a dedicated Ward Helper at East Lothian Community Hospital, is a deserving award nominee. She supports patients by chatting, offering refreshments, and participating in ward activities. Her presence eases ward pressures, allowing staff to focus on their work.
Taryn is an experienced volunteer who supports new volunteers and participates in youth programmes. She continually seeks to develop her skills, completing additional training in various areas.
Beyond her NHS role, Taryn volunteers with ‘Compassionate Neighbours’ and has participated in EASE. She dedicates 2.5 hours weekly to the hospital, impacting patients and their families significantly. Taryn embodies the NHS Lothians Values, making a valuable contribution to the hospital and the wider community.
Outstanding Trustee of the Year
John Finch | Trustee with Pain Concern
John provides support to Pain Concern in various ways, including as Secretary, Treasurer and ICO. His support is invaluable, and his work is essential to the running of the charity. John is very dedicated and works compressed hours so that he can give a day a fortnight of his time to Pain Concern. In reality, he gives much more time to the charity than this, voluntarily giving up his time on other days to assist with tasks. He is an extremely committed individual and provides an, at times, much needed voice of reason. John brings a wealth of experience to the charity, including process and project management. He has implemented many processes, which has allowed the charity to run more efficiently. He has management expertise and guidance. He will happily take time to explain things and his approachable nature makes it easy for people to ask any questions.
He is on the trustee board, secretary treasure and ICA for Pain concern. His dedication has shown in his recent choice to compress his hours at work, to give a day a fortnight to Pain Concern. He is an extremely committed individual and will happily help when and wherever is needed. This is looking after the finances of the charity or doing a coffee run. He has a great sense of humour along with his light-hearted nature, are apart what makes his such a successful team member. John brings much experience to the charity, including project management, he has implemented many processes, allowing the charity to run more efficiently, he will happily take time to explain things, and has an approachable nature, our charity couldn’t achieve what we do without John. We really appreciate the skills and experience he brings to the team.
Volunteer Team of the Year
Saturday Volunteer Team (Muirfield Riding Therapy)
The Saturday team at MRT offers weekly riding activities and stable management to participants, expanding their access to facilities. Last year, they took ten participants to the regional dressage qualifiers, with five qualifying for the national championships.
This diverse volunteer team, aged 14 to 70, provides equestrian activities for young people with various disabilities. They also support fundraising activities and competitions. With three coaches, four trainees, and three activity leads, they deliver a range of activities every Saturday.
The team goes above and beyond to provide a safe learning space for participants, who, along with their families, have become part of our extended team. This special organisation benefits everyone involved.
Young Volunteer of the Year
Benjamin Brown | Youth Groups Volunteer with Musselburgh Library
Ben, a dedicated volunteer at Musselburgh Library, leads the Dungeons and Dragons and Pokémon Club. He spends his Friday afternoons as the Dungeon Master and an hour on Saturdays teaching Pokémon. His approachable nature, leadership, and communication skills have earned him respect from peers, parents, and staff.
Ben’s understanding and calm demeanor have made anxious children comfortable in the group. His initiative in starting these groups has led to their success, increasing the library’s profile and footfall. Always prepared, Ben ensures smooth sessions and arranges for replacements if needed. The library is fortunate to have such a competent and caring volunteer.
Lifelong Commitment to Volunteering
John Hood | Club manager, coach and more with Musselburgh Windsor FC
John Hood has been a dedicated volunteer at Musselburgh Windsor FC since 1998, coaching teams, chairing the Club’s 50th Jubilee Committee, and even starting two age groups. He’s attained his SFA Children’s Licence, organised numerous events, and represented the club in various capacities.
John has also held positions such as General Treasurer, General Secretary, and Club Manager, overseeing activities for nearly 800 players. He’s served for 25 years, received the Club’s highest accolade in 2014, and was recently inducted into the Musselburgh Windsor FC Hall of Fame. His enthusiasm and commitment have made him a hero to countless young players across East Lothian.
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Volunteer Centre East Lothian’s Volunteer of the Year
James Graham | Fa’side Community Pantry Volunteer
Community Volunteer of the Year
Audrey Bain | Management Committee Member with East Lothian Council
Malcolm Fairgrieve | General Assistant & Committee Member with Macmerry Miners Club
William Anderson | Community Kitchen Volunteer with Fa'side Community Kitchen
Environmental & Education Volunteer of the Year
Alexandra Third | Lifeguard & Swimming Coach with Dunbar Dolphins Swimming Club
Ryan Jeffries | Digital Support Volunteer with People Know How
Vanda Dow | Football Coach (Head Coach) with Cockenzie Star football
Health & Wellbeing Volunteer of the Year
Drew Cairns | Men's Group Peer Support Volunteer with Changes East Lothian
Rosanne Woods | Chair of Health & Wellbeing Network
Taryn Wallis | Ward Helper with NHS Lothian
Outstanding Trustee Volunteer of the Year
John Finch | Trustee with Pain Concern
Katy Lamb | Trustee & Treasurer with Headway East Lothian SCIO
Lindsey Mainds | Chair and Trustee with Friends of Ormiston Park
Volunteer Team of the Year
East Lothian Roots & Fruits Volunteers
Saturday Volunteer Team (Muirfield Riding Therapy)
Team Can Do
Young Volunteer
Benjamin Brown | Youth Groups Volunteer with Musselburgh Library
Daena Robertson | Peer Mentor with Bridges Project
Ray Bleakley | Volunteer with The Bridge Centre Motorcycle Project
Lifelong Commitment
Gill Wilson | with Community Council / Area Partnership / Bleachinfield management committee / Dunbar Day Centre / Youth Work
John Hood | Club manager, coach and more with Musselburgh Windsor FC
Karen Clark | Guide leader with 1st Prestonpans Guides
