The Borders Volunteers Fair will take place on Wednesday 25th September at Springwood Part in Kelso, from 2pm-4pm.
Each year, thousands of hours are given by volunteers across the Borders to improve the quality of life of individuals and communities.
But more volunteers are needed. And a call has gone out to anyone who would like to find out more and get involved in their local community to go along to the inaugural Borders Volunteers Fair at the Springwood Park, Kelso, on Wednesday 25th September from 2-4pm.
More than 50 voluntary organisations and charities have signed up to showcase their work. From the Borders Family History Society to Youth Borders, Borders Pet Rescue, Lauder in Bloom and the British Red Cross to name a few, there will be something for everyone and every age group.
From the larger organisations operating across the whole of the Borders to others just on your doorstep, they are all looking forward to explaining what they do and hopefully recruiting some vitally needed new supporters.
The fair is part of a day-long event initiated by the three Borders Lord-Lieutenants with support from Scottish Borders Council and the Borders Third Sector Interface (made up of The Bridge, Berwickshire Association for Voluntary Service, Volunteer Centre Borders and the Scottish Borders Social Enterprise Chamber). The overall aim is to bring charity and voluntary groups together to share experiences, explore opportunities for joined up working and identify where there are gaps in provision. Crucially they are also hoping to encourage new volunteers.
Claire Penny, Executive Officer at Volunteer Centre Borders, on behalf of the Borders Third Sector Interface, said: “All the organisations attending are deeply committed to what they do, but we need you to lend that all important helping hand which is why we’re inviting everyone to join us on the day. It’s a chance to have an informal chat with a wide range of organisations and find out more, not only about what they offer but also about the benefits that becoming a volunteer can bring.
“There really is something for everyone. If you’ve got some spare time and want to make a difference, whether that’s becoming a befriender to an older person, getting involved in a community garden, encouraging people to improve their health and wellbeing or supporting someone to research their family history, we’ve got the organisation for you.”
The event is free and refreshments will be provided. There is no need to book – just go along on the day. If you would like any more information, contact Volunteer Centre Borders on 01896 754041 or