BUSINESSES across the north are being urged to play their part in Volunteers’ Week, a UK-wide campaign started in 1984 which, through hundreds of events and celebrations, says thank you to volunteers and recognises their invaluable and diverse contribution to the economy.
Young Enterprise, Northern Ireland’s leading education and enterprise charity, which works with more than 900 business volunteers every year to help make a difference to the future of young people, is among those immersed in the initiative, which runs until Wednesday June 6.
Its business volunteers take the time out of their own busy schedules to work with schools throughout the north. They work with the charity to ensure young people are equipped with the skills and agility to adapt, thrive and take advantage of our rapidly evolving world.
Carol Fitzsimons MBE, chief executive of Young Enterprise NI, says: "The future vitality of our economy depends on new ventures, innovation and a more entrepreneurial culture - one where people are prepared to develop fresh ideas, take risks, be flexible and believe in themselves.
"The work of our volunteers is vital in helping achieve this. Learning linked to real life situations is always more meaningful, especially when students take ownership of their own success. The social lessons are vital too: collaborating, communicating, promoting and selling."
Speaking about her experience of volunteering with Young Enterprise, Aoife Doherty of Derry-based bridal business Sass & Halo said: “I've loved every minute volunteering. Working with the youth in our community, in both primary and secondary education, has been hugely gratifying and has exceeded my expectations.
"I'm blown away by the young individuals taking part in the programme and it is so inspiring to see and hear them get excited about business and learn such vital entrepreneurial skills. This is my first year as a volunteer and I look forward to the many more to come.”
