Warwick Volunteers presented with the King’s Award for Voluntary Service at a Birmingham ceremony
Warwick Volunteers is delighted to have been officially presented with The King’s Award for Voluntary Service for 2024 at a ceremony in Birmingham
Students, staff and long-standing community partners attended the event alongside other recipients from across the West Midlands. Outgoing student President Modhurima Islam joined incoming President Aleesha Vaughan on stage in front of a packed audience at the International Convention Centre, where they were presented with the award and a commemorative certificate by the Lord Lieutenant for the West Midlands, Derrick Anderson CBE.
Volunteers had the opportunity to mingle with other awardees and meet regional dignitaries including all the local mayors of the region and the High Sheriff of the West Midlands, Douglas Wright MBE DL. Lord Mayor of Coventry Mal Mutton said to students: “I can’t tell you how really proud I am of all the recipients of the King’s Award from Coventry today. It’s been brilliant, congratulations to you all.”
Warwick Volunteers Manager Paul Barlow said:
“This event is a perfect way to celebrate and recognise volunteering in the West Midlands. Warwick Volunteers is proud and honoured to be receiving this award amongst such impressive company, our fellow volunteering organisations are making a huge difference in communities across the region and its wonderful to be sharing the day with them. Our student volunteers show such dedication in giving their time alongside their studies and other commitments, it’s fantastic that they’ve had the opportunity to take part.”
Capping off the celebrations, two student volunteers have been invited to attend a forthcoming summer garden party at Buckingham Palace.
The award is the highest award a local voluntary group can receive in the UK, and is equivalent to an MBE. It recognises the huge contribution to the community made by students across the University who have given their time and skills to support charities and organisations across Coventry and Warwickshire.
Last year 926 students gave over 13,200 hours of their time towards 135 projects and organisations. Students volunteer across a range of organisations including youth projects, supporting the homeless and conservation activities.
Warwick Volunteers organise, support and connect students at the University of Warwick with partners across Coventry and Warwickshire. Volunteering enables you to give back to the local community, develop your skills and meet new people. If you are interested in volunteering, get started here.