Cheers for volunteers
Day to give unsung heroes appreciation
LOCAL legends will be saluted with a souped-up celebration on Thank You Day this summer.
Millions of people are expected to raise a glass to those whose dedication helps local communities thrive.
Cheers For Volunteers on Sunday, July 7 is the fourth such day since it was created to heroes of the pandemic in 2021.
More than six million people took part last year, with 90% meeting someone new from a different background, and 75% saying they left with a stronger sense of community.
Ambassador and ex-EastEnders star Ross Kemp, 59, said: “It’s about saying a huge thank you to the local legends that make Britain great.
“It’s about the people who go the extra mile – whether they’re part of Britain’s army of unpaid carers, kids’ football coaches, food bank volunteers or just the millions of people who help out when times are tough. This year we’re launching a community takeover.
“It doesn’t matter what you do – whether it’s a party in the town square, a family fun day or just a picnic in the park. What matters is that we all take the time to come together with friends and neighbours to say thank you to all the people that do so much to make our communities what they are.”
Brendan Cox, co-founder of organisers The Together Coalition, said this year will be at “the next level” with communities invited to take over spaces that already belong to them “to tackle isolation and division”.
Catherine Johnstone, boss of the Royal Voluntary Service, said: “We want charities, organisations and individuals to all take a moment to reflect on the invaluable contributions of volunteers in all corners of the country.
“I hope everyone will join us in raising a glass, or a mug.”