Special lunch to celebrate Volunteer Week

AS part of Volunteer Week 2012, local charity Banbridge Citizens Advice Bureau is celebrating their volunteers commitment at a special lunch event on Thursday June 7 in the Bureau.

Councillor Joan Baird, Chair of Banbridge District Council will be in attendance to present certificates to the volunteers.

Full of praise for the volunteers, Bureau manager, Margaret Ellis, stated, “At a time of high unemployment, increasing economic pressure and cuts to public services, the invaluable contribution made by volunteers is needed now more than ever.

“I would like to publicly thank all our volunteers for their dedication and continued hard work, and to recognise their contribution by marking Volunteers Week with a special lunch to celebrate their efforts.

Louis Boyle, Chair of Banbridge Citizens Advice Bureau, said, “Our organisation, which many people still do not know is a charity, could not operate without volunteers. They help us to provide a vital service in the community, and without their commitment the service would struggle to survive, and the cost to the economy of unresolved problems would soar.”

Richard, a volunteer since last year, added, “Volunteering at the Bureau since October last year has improved my skills and enhanced my job prospects. The work is engaging and never dull, and the training and support is first class.”

Volunteers can participate in a variety of roles which include training as volunteer advisers, covering reception duties, helping with fundraising activities or becoming a member of the management committee. Opportunities are flexible, with some volunteers choosing to help out for a short period, whilst others have supported the Bureau for many years.

Banbridge Citizens Advice Bureau has provided free, impartial, confidential and independent advice and information in Banbridge and District since 1989. Advice and information is offered on many areas, including benefits, debt, housing, employment and consumer issues. The Bureau is based at 77 Bridge Street, and is open for appointments between 9.30am and 2pm.

To arrange an appointment, the bureau can be contacted by phone on 028 406 22201, or by email to [email protected]

No appointment is required for Outreach Advice sessions which are as below: The Ranch, Dromore: Tuesday 10.00am – 12.30pm; Rathfriland Community Centre: Wednesday 10.00am – 12.30pm; Gilford Community Centre: Friday 10.00am – 12.30pm

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