According to a Johns Hopkins survey, nearly 140 million people in 37 countries participate in volunteer labor. This translates to over 20.8 million full-time employees including volunteer organizations. By and large, volunteering is an important aspect of community development. It brings together people who are dedicated to making their community a better place. Hence, volunteer organizations continue to leverage volunteers to develop effective community initiatives and outreach.
- Funding for community services is sometimes limited, and volunteer organizations must rely on volunteers to properly deliver their services.
- BHF reported that four in five (83%) of its volunteers disclosed that volunteering had improved their overall happiness.
What are the top volunteer organizations in the UK?
Volunteer organizations largely undertake volunteer programs that benefit not only the institutions and participants but also the lives of community people. In this article, we will consider some of the top volunteer organizations in the UK.
1. Reach Volunteering
Reach Volunteering is the UK’s largest single source of trustees for the voluntary sector. The organization seeks to create a world in which people work together to build a successful, equitable, and sustainable society. Hence, Reach Volunteering fosters collaboration between NGOs and volunteers to assist with efficient program delivery. Likewise, individuals can volunteer on the organization’s online platform to share their professional skills with good causes.
2. British Heart Foundation (BHF)
BHF’s goal is to create a system that conquers the fear of heart and circulation disorders. Hence, the organization gathers funds to support medical research in cures and therapies. Also, the organization works with volunteers to organize fundraising events. BHF reported that four in five (83%) of its volunteers disclosed that volunteering had improved their overall happiness. Also, two out of every five volunteers reported that providing volunteer assistance has benefited their physical health.
3. UNICEF UK
UNICEF UK leverages volunteers to assist with one-time or peak activities. The organization also previously provided work experience placements to young people ages 14 to 18. UNICEF is a self-funded global organization that thrives on the generosity of supporters as well as volunteers to improve the lives of children.
4. Christian Aid
Christian Aid seeks to end severe poverty by addressing its underlying causes. The organization undertakes various program initiatives to empower communities. Likewise, through the help of volunteers, Christian Aid has helped to improve the lives of some of the world’s poorest people. By and large, volunteers donate their time and skills to improve communities. Christian Aid comprises a worldwide movement of individuals, churches, and community organizations.
5. Citizens Advice
Citizens Advice empowers people with the knowledge and confidence to grow and improve themselves. Hence, the organization alongside its network of local charities provides free confidential guidance online, by phone, and in person. With 16,000 volunteers and 8,650 staff, Citizens Advice provides assistance in over 2,500 places across England and Wales. Overall, the organization has assisted 2.55 million people. Also, the organization’s self-help advice has gained over 58 million views on its guidance website.
Conclusion
Volunteering is a critical initiative because it allows organizations to deliver vital services to groups and individuals within the community. Funding for community services is sometimes limited, and volunteer organizations must rely on volunteers to properly deliver their services.
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