Today (5 December) marks International Volunteer Day, and Archery GB would like to take the opportunity not only to thank our amazing volunteers, but to ask all archers to consider the great work volunteers do at their clubs, and take a moment to thank them too.
International Volunteer Day (IVD), is an international observance that was mandated by the UN General Assembly in 1985. The UN Volunteers organisation states that: The Day is an opportunity for us all to promote volunteerism, encourage governments to support volunteer efforts and recognise volunteer contributions to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at local, national and international levels.'
UN Volunteers coordinates a campaign to promote IVD every year, building on the impact volunteers have in communities, nationally and globally, for peace and development. The theme for this year is: Together we can through volunteering' which focuses on the challenges and needs of volunteers during the Covid-19 pandemic. It is hoped that this positive message will highlight the incredible contribution of volunteers around the globe.
Within archery, we are fortunate to have so many wonderful volunteers who have been invaluable throughout the pandemic, freely giving their time to help keep the sport up and running against all odds. We would like to give special thanks to all the club volunteers who have gone over and above to get their archery clubs and facilities back up and running, complying to the ever changing government and Covid guidelines. We would also like to thank all the volunteers who have supported Archery GB, through our many working groups and panels, our Tournament Organisers, Coaches, Judges, Ambassadors, Mentors, County and Regional Associations.
You can read a few volunteer case studies on our website, like that of Archery GB's Safeguarding Officer Carol Bladen, or Student Ambassador Ffion Edgeley.
We need more volunteers - could you lend a hand?
If you are interested in volunteering in archery, please complete this volunteer survey, so we can find out more information about you and the volunteer roles you are interested in. We will then use this information to help signpost you to appropriate training and match your volunteering interests to available opportunities.
Does your club need volunteers?
If you run a club and need more volunteers, please complete this club survey so we can help match available volunteers to roles you need filling within your club.
