National Student Volunteering Week in full swing at Teesside University

Teesside University has been celebrating National Student Volunteering Week with a host of activities and community events to support students and organisations in voluntary activities.

Trish Tarrant, Assistant Administrator of Volun-tees said: 'The participation in events is fantastic with everything from a fundraising day, tea parties, sports competitions and fun challenges. Events have also been in aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care, Sport Relief, and St. Teresa’s Hospice in Darlington.'

One of the events on this year’s schedule included the Independent Living for Older People Tea Party. Held in the Brittan building on Teesside campus, the afternoon event included a drama society performance, bingo, a sing-a-long, a slideshow of old Middlesbrough and refreshments.

Volun-tees organises a range of successful events annually, from volunteer recruitment fairs to charity fundraisers during this week and, as a result, sees a huge increase in interest in volunteering for the rest of the year.

Trish added: 'Registrations on Volun-tees are at a record high and more voluntary organisations than ever are offering our students excellent opportunities which will enhance their skills and enable them to help their local community. Student-led projects are increasing in popularity too and our new Student VIP Chairs (Volun-tees Impact Programme) are doing a great job in spreading the word to their peers about the benefits of volunteering, as well as organising and leading some extremely worthwhile campaigns.'

Sarah Mahone, a third year criminology student, said: 'Being a VIP Chair has been the best experience of my life and can only get better. We have a chance to make a difference in our community and see our ideas come to life.'

She added: 'Our plans range from campaigning for mental health organisations, to helping reduce crime rates in our community. It's great meeting new people and having fun at the same time as gaining experience to put on my C.V.'

Other organisations in attendance have included; Middlesbrough Council, MS Society, Teesside & District Society for the Blind, Middlesbrough Voluntary Development Agency, Save The Children UK, Hope North East, New Horizons Chat Support Centre and DISC.

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National Student Volunteering Week in full swing at Teesside University