Volunteers past and present celebrated at Groundwork

Volunteer Project Assistants outside the Groundwork Environment Centre with Cliff Ellison (Groundwork Oldham & Rochdale Executive Director) and The Worshipful Mayor of Oldham Councillor Olwen Chadderton

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Volunteers past and present have recently attended a special celebration event at Groundwork Oldham & Rochdale.

The volunteers have all taken part in the Volunteer Project Assistant (VPA) programme at Groundwork and the event marked the landmark of 2000 VPA participants. The programme helps unemployed graduates and adults by providing them with real project management experience to help kick start their careers.

Vicki Devonport, Executive Director at Groundwork Oldham & Rochdale, said: “It is only when you hear the participants talk about what they have gained from the VPA programme and their aspirations for the future that you fully understand the difference we are making, not only to those who have taken part but also to the many local organisations and groups who have benefitted from the skills and efforts of the graduate volunteers. This is a real win-win for local businesses and organisations as well as a fantastic learning experience for the graduates.”

Following a presentation by the current volunteers, each VPA was presented with certificates by the Worshipful Mayor of Oldham, Councillor Olwen Chadderton.

Marc Sunderland, aged 25 and from Rochdale, secured a job at Rochdale Boroughwide Housing whilst taking part in the VPA scheme. Marc, commented: “Whilst the job market is saturated with graduates looking for work, the VPA scheme enables graduates to fill that gap on their CV which can help them stand out from the crowd. Furthermore, the scheme can be tailored to suit the needs of the individual thus enabling them to get involved in something they are passionate about.”

The VPA programme has been running at the regeneration charity since 1993. Some of the past volunteers have carved out impressive careers in a wide range of organisations. At the event speakers included Andrew Darron, Executive Director at Groundwork Lancashire West and Wigan and Helen Taylor, Chief Executive of Mahdlo, both past VPA’s at Groundwork.

The latest evolution of the VPA programme sees Groundwork supporting VPA placements at other local organisations. A number of partnerships have now been established including placements at Rochdale Boroughwide Housing and Bulky Bobs in Oldham. Groundwork is calling on other organisations to come forward and provide placements to adults and graduates keen to gain work experience.

This event is one of a number of celebrations leading up to Groundwork Oldham & Rochdale’s 30th anniversary in October 2013.