Awards and Commendations for Outstanding Voluntary Contribution were recently presented to local people by The Mayor of Chelmsford at a celebration afternoon tea held in the Mayor’s Parlour.
Chelmsford Awards for Voluntary Service were formed eight years ago by Chelmsford Community Voluntary Services (CVS) to recognise outstanding contribution in volunteering by local people.
The Mayor of Chelmsford said:
“Throughout my Mayoral year I have met many outstanding volunteers in various groups around the City and I have been astounded at how much good work really goes on. Today’s awards are just a snapshot of this incredible work and there are many other unsung heroes out there! I’d like to take this opportunity of thanking everyone for the contributions they make to helping people of all ages to improve their lives.”
Lorraine Jarvis from the CVS said:
“Chelmsford is a place where people give and give and just keep on giving! These Awards shine the spotlight on the fantastic contribution volunteers make across the community.”
This year the Mayor’s Award for Outstanding Voluntary Service had three categories.
Winner of the Adult category was: Luisa Di Marco for her dedication to volunteering in bringing the Knife Angel to Chelmsford, working tirelessly over several years to campaign and engage dozens of agencies. Through her lived experience of exploitation she founded Keep It 100 Essex CIC, set up an information and signposting website and new Youth Awards. She’s ensured new Knife Banks are installed in key places and continues to support young people at risk of exploitation. Now busy creating an educational legacy for the city she has also contributed to national policy. A Highly Commended certificate, in appreciation and recognition of the exceptional contribution made to volunteering by an adult, was also presented this year to: Rebecca Mabey for her contribution to 5th/9th Chelmsford Scout Group and Chelmsford Scout & Guide Gang Show.
Winner Young Person category was: Isabelle Chambers who has volunteered as a Young Leader every week for over four years at 6th Chelmsford Beavers. She has been a badge tester for 100’s of badges, canoes, teaches archery, stays at numerous camps, and during lock down did brilliant activities on Zoom! She started helping for her Bronze D of E aged 14 and just stayed, helping 100s of young people learn and grow in the Scouting Movement.
Winner of the Team category was: Danbury First Responders. This volunteer team provide trained emergency first response to local communities in Danbury, Bicknacre, Sandon, Little Baddow and surrounding areas. Founded in 2002 with the same volunteer co-ordinator from the start, the team cover many hours and days per week with some having responded to thousands of 999 emergency calls, despatched by the ambulance service. Over 8499 patients and families have been assisted over the past 10 years.