Community heroes recognised at Hippodrome celebration

Eighteen organisations across the West Midlands, that include over a thousand volunteers, are coming together on Sunday 14 April to celebrate their recognition for gaining a King’s Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS).

The Lord-Lieutenant for the West Midlands, Sir John Crabtree OBE (pictured) along with local mayors and dignitaries from the West Midlands, will be there to present the award and certificate to each group on stage and highlight the wonderful support they provide to communities across the region.  

Amongst the organisation recipients are four from Wolverhampton (Parent & Carer Support Group , Wolverhampton Alz Café, Wolverhampton Samaritans, Wolverhampton Wrestling Club), two from Walsall (Cresswell Wanderers, Midland Freewheelers - Blood Bikes), three from Sandwell (Cape Community Care Day Centre, New Beginnings Community, Student Voice),Champions Community Trust from Dudley, two from Coventry (British Organisation for People of Asian Origin, The Highlife Centre) and six from Birmingham (Believe In Me CIC, Citizens’ Panel, Legacy WM, LouDeemY Productions, RoadPeace West Midlands, You’re Cherished CIC).

The Lord-Lieutenant for the West Midlands, Sir John Crabtree OBE, said he is delighted with the wide range of support and that so many people volunteer in groups being recognised with a KAVS.

 He said: “It is terrific to discover how many groups in this region go beyond what’s expected to provide so much help to others. The organisations this year have excelled in offering services to others that simply would not exist if it weren’t for the volunteers who are passionate about making a difference to so many lives.”

“There is a tremendous amount of kindness and caring for vulnerable people, whether it be for those with mental health issues, many dealing with grief or in need in crisis situations or just simply wanting to be with people to connect over a coffee. Quite a number of the volunteers have benefited from help in the past and now want to help others in the same way they were helped, which is wonderful.”

“I look forward to meeting each one when we hold our Celebration event at the Hippodrome.”