00:00So, before we get actually into the awards, I just want to steal a few words from a colleague
00:05of mine at the Forest Voluntary Action Forum, Deb Cook, because I think this just sums up
00:11volunteering in a really beautiful way. Volunteers are a hidden powerhouse of activity within our
00:17communities and their actions impact on the lives of us all. Whether we realise this or not,
00:24volunteers strengthen the work of charitable organisations of all sizes, as well as running
00:30groups and activities that make countless lives better. Volunteers are the ones running the sports
00:36clubs attended by your kids, delivering meals to our elderly friends and neighbours, enabling your
00:43local community cafe or social club to exist, running community events, serving as town and parish
00:50councillors and even picking up the litter from our towns and villages. We will be lost without our
00:56volunteers. What doesn't get talked about nearly enough is how much volunteering also gives back
01:03to those that do it. Volunteering can make us happier, healthier, more fulfilled and more active.
01:11It teaches us new skills, broadens our horizons and helps us to feel less lonely. By encouraging
01:18volunteering, we strengthen and connect our whole community. I think they're really wise words from Deb's.
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