June brings one of our favourite times of the year – Volunteer’s Week!
Many GFS groups celebrated their volunteers this month, and Townhill’s Group Coordinator, Shelley, made sure to share their party with us.
Organisationally, we often talk about how much the groups can mean to girls and volunteers alike.
But nothing tells that story better than girls working together to show their appreciation in special moments like this.
It’s more than just a regular after-school club. The girls are teaching our volunteers the true meaning of community and inclusion. They trust us, they look up to us, and they know they can come to us even when they’re feeling down.
It’s a special bond we share, and it’s amazing to see how the girls light up when they’re with us. We’re not just mentors or leaders to them – we’re like their extended family.
-Shelley
When it came time to celebrate the volunteers, girls played an active role in party planning, making sure the surprise party was memorable for volunteers.
From decorating the room to arranging the cakes, Shelley said girls took on as much responsibility for the party as they could, ultimately creating a lovely atmosphere.
The girls were thoughtful and expressed their gratitude in creative ways, making thank you cards and posters showing their appreciation. They even prepared speeches before group started!
The girls’ speeches told volunteers why girls loved them – showing just how special the bond between girls and volunteers at group really is.
While also evidencing that girls feel able to express their thoughts and feelings in the safe space groups (and volunteers) provide.
This heartfelt tribute highlighted the meaningful impact the volunteers had made on their lives, further emphasising the depth of their appreciation.
-Shelley
The girls were incredibly enthusiastic in all the effort they put into expressing their gratitude and love for their volunteers. At the end of the surprise party, girls presented volunteers with certificates, honouring all the dedication and support they give.
Volunteers create the heart and soul of each GFS group, with Townhill’s surprise party showing just how true that is for them. Volunteers reflect the individuality of the girls and the groups themselves and are a huge part of creating a special sense of community.
Their faces lit up with wide smiles, reflecting the fulfilment they found in the girls’ efforts.
-Shelley
According to Shelley, the volunteers were overwhelmed with happiness and gratitude. She even saw one shedding a few tears of joy.
Townhill’s volunteers do their best to make a warm and loving atmosphere that’s welcoming to all, and seeing how much the girls express their love and appreciation for them really says it all!
It’s not just a once-in-a-while thing for them. They genuinely want to be there every single week, making it fun for the girls. And you know what? It’s working! The girls are always bringing new friends along, and our club keeps growing and growing.
-Shelley
Shelley said it was truly heartwarming to see the girls’ enthusiasm and the effort they put into expressing their gratitude and love for the volunteers.
Their thoughtful planning and gestures undoubtedly made the surprise party an unforgettable experience for both the volunteers and themselves.
Together, we’ve created something truly special at Townhill GFS. It’s a place where everyone belongs, where friendships are formed, and where we all learn from each other. The dedication of our volunteers and the incredible spirit of the girls have turned our club into a tight-knit community.
We may not have all the fancy formalities, but the love and support we have for each other make it a place where everyone feels valued and cared for.
– Shelley
Leave a Reply