The New Year is a time of new beginnings and a time people when think about volunteering, so we’re delighted to share phase 2 of our Volunteering City of Ripon Project with you. This good news is made possible by working together with our Skell Valley Project partners the National Trust and Nidderdale AONB, and funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.  

In the summer, we conducted research to learn more about what local community organisations need support with. Ripon already has a wonderful culture of volunteering and a city rich in good and varied volunteering opportunities. However we discovered recruiting more young volunteers was a priority for everyone.
 
By recruiting more 14 to 18 year olds we can begin to create a sustainable pipe line of new energised, engaged, committed and passionate young volunteers for the future of Ripon, and in turn provide meaningful opportunities and support the wellbeing of our young people. 

As a young volunteer in Ripon said: ‘Over the time I spent volunteering I grew so much and developed a confidence that I didn't have before and that I still carry with me now.’
 
The Volunteering City of Ripon project is pleased to have launched educational resources and “The Power of Ten” challenge for schools and youth groups, in collaboration with the brilliant Picture News team (based in Harrogate).

The aim is to inspire young people to explore the power of volunteering in their community and the many personal benefits it can bring them.

These interactive resources open the conversation about volunteering, with the option to complete the “The Power of Ten” challenge. This is an opportunity for schools and groups to complete 10 hours of volunteering for a local organisation at times convenient to them, which will help to strengthen our communities and improve wellbeing for everyone involved.
. 
Once a group has completed their challenge, they will receive a certificate and each young person taking part will also receive a badge celebrating their achievements and positive impact on their community.

By using these resources, we hope to plant the seed from an early age, that volunteering is a natural part of life, beyond school age.

We are committed to bringing this project to life in the Ripon area and would love to hear from schools and groups who want to get involved. If you would like to know more please get in touch with Jo Thackwray JoanneT@hadca.org.uk and we hope you will start 2023 with the positive challenge of the “Power of Ten”. 

You can find out more about the Project and view the new “Power of Ten” resources at hadca.org.uk/VCOR

We’re inviting young people in Ripon to a Volunteer Recruitment Fair on 15 February, 1pm – 5 pm, at Ripon Library, which will feature opportunities open to them. There will short and long term roles, one off projects and taster sessions on offer. Everyone is welcome to come along to find out more.