Christmas is a time for giving, and what better opportunity to discover new ways to give back to your community than on Friday 5th December, International Volunteer Day.
The theme for 2025 is “every contribution matters”, so whether you have just one hour or one day to spare in the run up to Christmas, the team at Volunteer Centre East Lothian (VCEL) are encouraging locals to give up a little of their time to make a big difference to those in need.
Christmas can be a particularly tough time for many people. Thankfully, there are lots of fantastic charities based in East Lothian dedicated to providing help and support. However many of these charities are in desperate need of extra help throughout the Christmas period so they can continue to bring comfort and joy to people across the region.
There are more than 120 volunteering opportunities currently listed on VCEL’s interactive search tool. From NHS ward helpers assisting people in hospital and community first responders tending to people in emergency situations, to befrienders and bereavement counsellors offering friendship and support to those who may be lonely or struggling this Christmas.
The search tool can also be used to filter volunteering opportunities in a variety of ways, making it as easy as possible for anyone to find a suitable role, whatever their age, abilities and availability.
Speaking ahead of International Volunteer Day, VCEL Chief Officer Maureen Allan said;
“It’s easy to get caught up in the Christmas rush and forget that the true spirit of the season is about giving. If you can contribute to your community by giving up just a little of your time, you could make a real difference to those in need right here in East Lothian. There really is a volunteering opportunity to suit everyone, whatever your skills or experience.”
A full list of volunteer opportunities is available to view on the VCEL volunteer search tool, www.volunteereastlothian.org.uk/volunteering-opportunities.
