After seeing the nation coming together over the past two years like never before, Rotary in Great Britain and Ireland is celebrating volunteers, charities, and organisations’ community spirit at Volunteer Expo Live.
The national event, which is taking place for the first time at the NEC Birmingham after being hosted as a virtual event last year, seeks to connect those interested in volunteering with the charity sector under one roof.
The free event on the 6th and 7th May will bring people together from across society to inspire and celebrate those who love to give something back. Celebrity speakers including English Rugby ace Ben Cohen, actress and Strictly star Chizzy Akudolu, and Olympic Champion Hannah Mills will be discussing causes close to their hearts, such as sustainability, mental health, and bullying.
“A lot has changed for our communities over the past couple of years, but what has become apparent is people’s enthusiasm for doing good for others. However, as our lives start to get busier people are struggling to find an outlet where they can volunteer,” said Amanda Watkin, General Secretary of Rotary in Great Britain and Ireland.
“Volunteer Expo Live is a great chance to learn more about how you can help and more importantly where. As the first event of its kind, we hope Volunteer Expo Live will form part of a legacy that will leave a positive impact on the world going forward. Volunteering doesn’t just create change but it is also extremely rewarding and fun for individuals involved.”
A recent survey by the Together Coalition found that an estimated 12.4 million people volunteered during the Covid-19 pandemic, and 4.6 million of those did so for the first time.
Volunteer Expo Live will help people find meaningful volunteering opportunities to suit their interests, time commitments and desire to make a difference.
The event will feature over 70 exhibition stands, with visitors being able to chat and meet with a range of local, national and international charities and social impact organisations.
Those attending will also be able to take part in engaging workshops, including a food packing event to support Ukrainian refugees, as well as be in the audience for some outstanding speakers.
To find out more about what’s in store for the event, and book your free tickets, head to www.volunteerexpo.co.uk/live
