Honoring a Legacy of Service: The Barry Clout Volunteering Awards 2024
Announcing the Barry Clout Volunteering Award Winners for 2024In the heart of our community, Barry Clout stood out as a passionate advocate for the voluntary sector, dedicating his life to making a significant impact on the lives of many individuals. As a lifelong volunteer and a Trustee at MVA, Barry was a guiding force who believed in the transformative power of volunteering. His commitment to youth development and the preservation of the countryside exemplified his desire to foster unity and collaboration within Medway.
Every year MVA honor Barry’s legacy with their Outstanding Contribution to Volunteering Awards recognising those who embody the same selfless spirit and dedication to community service.
This years’ overall winner of the Barry Clout Award, Joshua Wood, exemplifies the spirit of resilience and dedication. Facing challenges such as dyslexia and dyspraxia, Joshua has committed himself to a range of organisations, including the Duke of Edinburgh's Award expeditions, the Army Cadet Force, and Kent Scouts. Through his efforts, Joshua is not just adding practical skills to the lives of young people; he is fostering joy, camaraderie, and a sense of belonging in the community.
In addition to Joshua's inspiring work, the awards also highlight the vital contributions of other remarkable individuals. Peter Martin, Chair of Fortis Trust Trustees and The Thinking Schools Academy, has made significant strides to enhance local education and ensure equitable school funding for young people. His collaboration with the Halpern Charitable Foundation has further enriched community engagement in the arts and wellbeing, positively impacting residents' quality of life.
Another commendable volunteer recognised this year is Jackie, a retired NHS nurse and health visitor. Since January 2023, Jackie has been providing essential support to clients through the Macmillan Crossroads Volunteer Service, assisting individuals recovering from surgery, managing palliative diagnoses, and offering comfort to those grieving. Her compassionate dedication exemplifies the critical role of volunteers in healthcare and community resilience.
Additionally, Carol, the final Barry Clout runner-up has devoted over two decades to leading youth groups, creating a nurturing environment for children aged 7-12 to explore their creative side and build essential life skills. By prioritising confidence-building, problem-solving, and teamwork over traditional acting lessons, Carol has crafted a space where children can flourish. Even during the pandemic, she adapted by transitioning sessions to Zoom and continues to manage workshops for ages 7-21. Her commitment to providing growth opportunities and unforgettable experiences, whether through productions or community trips, reflects the enduring spirit of volunteerism.
As we celebrate the Barry Clout Outstanding Contributions to Volunteering Awards, we honor not just Barry's legacy but also the countless individuals like Joshua, Peter, Jackie, and Carol who continue to make a profound difference in our community. Their unwavering commitment to service embodies the essence of Barry's belief that volunteering can change lives, and together, they inspire us all to contribute and build a better, more united community.