Save the Children celebrates volunteers

More than 100 people from 22 Save the Children branches across Northern Ireland attended, ‘Volunteer Day’, at Greenmount College.

Award-winning author Clare Mulley was the keynote speaker and told volunteers about her book on the organisation’s founder – Eglantyne Jebb.

‘The Woman who Saved the Children’ tells the story of a remarkable woman who defied convention – and was even arrested - to help save the lives of starving children in post-First World War Russia and Europe. Ms Jebb was also one of the first fundraisers to recognise the power of celebrity endorsement and enlisted the support of playwright George Bernard Shaw.

Also addressing the event were Tanya Steele, Director of Supporter Relations and Fundraising, Stephanie Allen, Legacies Marketing Manager and Elizabeth Munnis, Regional Manager for Save the Children.

Robert Lamrock, Chair of the Northern Ireland Staff & Volunteer Forum welcomed everyone and explained more about Save the Children's 'Take a Step' fundraising initiative.

People of all ages across Northern Ireland are being encouraged to take sponsored steps of any kind - walking, running, dancing or playing – to help save a child's life.

Robert said: “Children all over the world have to walk miles for food, water or shelter. And across the UK too, children have to take tough steps every day just to survive. We are encouraging as many people as possible to register by going to www.savethechildren.org.uk/takeastep or calling Save the Children in Belfast on 90-620000.

Jo Keating, Community Fundraising Executive for Save the Children said: “We look forward to meeting the volunteers every year and taking the opportunity to thank them for their tremendous commitment to Save the Children.

“We know that without the support of our volunteers and supporters, Save the Children would not be able to continue its work here at home or overseas. We are indebted to every one of them.”

A number of awards were also presented for outstanding contribution and the day ended with a celebratory lunch.