Our wonderful supporters from the Llandrindod Wells Friends Group have been celebrated for their volunteering and fundraising achievements by the High Sherriff of Powys.

(Picture by Ruth Rees Photography)

Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations (PAVO) and the High Sheriff of Powys, Reg Cawthorne held their first Volunteer Voices Launch recently to recognise a select number of volunteers across Powys who make a huge difference – including our dedicated friends group, which has raised more than £200,000 over the last two decades. 

Reg Cawthorne, High Sheriff of Powys said: “I am delighted that during my term of office I can shine a light on some of those unsung heroes that volunteer to support their local communities across Powys.

“I have very much looked to highlight those volunteers that are often in the background but provide such integral support to our local communities.”

Ilma Marpole has been the chairman of the group for more than 20 years alongside the treasurer and secretary Cath Carroll, who were in attendance at the event. 

“I remember when we first met with people from Hope House to discuss setting up a friends group,” said Ilma.  

“There were a number of children and families here at the time that had started to get care at the hospice and we knew it was a worthwhile cause to raise money for. I’m not sure any of us could have imaged then we would raise £200,000 and still be going all these years later.” 

The Friends Group celebrated 20 years in 2022

Humbling

Our chief executive, Andy Goldsmith, said: "I am constantly in awe of our volunteers, those that show enormous dedication by giving up their time to work with us, either at the hospices, at our shops or supporting us to be able to hold events.

"Without the selfless efforts of volunteers we simply wouldn't be able to provide the care we do to the local children with life-threatening conditions and their families.

"Hope House Children's Hospices was built on a foundation of volunteering, and the unstinting committed support of our volunteers that has allowed us to go from strength to strength over the years.

"The contribution from the Llandrindod Wells Friends Group has been nothing short of amazing. All their work has helped us to grown and reach more local children and families.

"To have given so much of their time and energy to the charity for as long as they have is truly humbling, and it is people like them that have made the charity what it is today.”

Clair Swales, CEO of PAVO, said: “It was an honour to work alongside the High Sheriff for this event – volunteers are the lifeblood of the county with over 42% of Powys residents volunteering across the county. Without volunteers many of the services delivered by the voluntary sector would be unable to continue.”