At HEY Smile Foundation, we believe in the power of volunteering to transform lives and communities. Our commitment to recognising and celebrating the unsung heroes who dedicate their time and energy to make a positive difference is at the heart of what we do. The Time2Volunteer Awards 2023, held on 5th October at Doubletree by Hilton Hull, was a shining example of this commitment, as we honoured incredible volunteers from across the Humber region.

This year’s awards ceremony was a heart-warming celebration of the individuals and groups whose selfless efforts have left an indelible mark on our community. Nearly 300 volunteers and staff members, award category sponsors, and event partners Hull CVS, Nisa Retail’s Charity: Making a Difference Locally, East Riding of Yorkshire Council and Hull City Council, came together to pay tribute to these community champions.

The 138 nominations across 12 award categories showcased the diverse and impactful volunteer work happening right here in our region. From mentoring and tutoring young people, to helping the elderly, from environmental initiatives, to establishing new community groups, these volunteers have been the driving force behind positive change.

Jamie Lewis, Smile’s CEO, summed up the spirit of the awards perfectly: “The amazing thing about the Time2Volunteer Awards is it creates a platform that not only recognises excellence but also encourages positive change within our local community. Every act, no matter how small, has a ripple effect that touches countless lives. It brings hope, strength, and unity to local people.”

This year we decided to award a Special Recognition Award. The Award was chosen by the judges as an award with a difference, an award that they want to shine an even brighter light on, and give special thanks to an individual or group that have made a difference.

Councillor David Tucker presented the Time2Volunteer Awards 2023 Special Recognition Posthumous Award to Jan Jones, Founder of HER Breast Friends, a charity providing essential services for those affected by breast cancer. The award was accepted by the Charity Manager, Jayne Beck, volunteers and beneficiaries from the Charity, as well as Jan’s family.

Councillor David Tucker, East Riding of Yorkshire Council Portfolio Holder for Public Health and Adult Social Care, echoed Jamie’s sentiment: “We are celebrating remarkable people who have selflessly dedicated their time, energy, and talents to make a difference in the lives of others. I hope more people are inspired to find out about volunteering opportunities and the fantastic benefits it can bring.”

One nominee who attended the Awards, Lucy Henn from Age UK Hull, had this to say: “Seeing how much difference you can make with 1 hour of volunteering is incredible.” Lucy volunteered as a befriender and has contributed over 10 months of her time.

The full list of Award winners are as follows:

Active and Sports Volunteer Award – Steph Atkinson, Little Victories Football Club

Behind the Scenes Volunteer Award – Neil Spencer, St John Ambulance

Environmental Volunteer Award – Kevin Heppell, PATT Foundation

Founding Volunteer Award – Sarah Lacy, aScEND Hull CIC

Fundraising Volunteer Award – Shelby’j Robinson, Two Rivers Community Foodbank

Good Neighbour Volunteer Award – Peter Hutcheon, City Health Care Partnership CIC

Inclusive Volunteer Award – Ayosola Odunsi, Welcome House

Long-Serving Volunteer Award – Celia Evans, Home-Start Goole and District

Older Volunteer Award – Barbara Swann, Hull Churches Homes from Hospital

Trustee Award – Charles Lewis, CatZero

Volunteer Team Award – Valued Minds at Space2BHeard CIC

Young Volunteer Award – Megan Kemp, Yorkshire MESMAC

Special Recognition Award – Jan Jones, HER Breast Friends

All volunteer winner stories, including the Special Recognition Award and video, are shared as case studies on the Time2Volunteer website here:

Case Studies | Time2Volunteer | Volunteering Opportunities in Hull and East Riding of Yorkshire

We are excited to share more about the incredible winners and their stories on our website and social media. These exceptional individuals are a testament to the positive impact that volunteers can have on our community. Their dedication and compassion inspire us all to make a difference, one act of kindness at a time. Their stories remind us that when we come together to make a difference, we create a brighter future for us all.