Celebrating our volunteers – June 2026

As part of Volunteers' Week, Lucy's Pantry hosted a special celebration event to thank our volunteers for their dedication, commitment, and hard work throughout the year.

The event brought together 12 volunteers for an afternoon of food, fun, and recognition. Volunteers enjoyed refreshments, took part in bingo, and had the opportunity to socialise and share their experiences outside of their usual volunteering roles.

A highlight of the event was the presentation of certificates to volunteers in recognition of their valuable contributions. We were also delighted to hear a heartfelt thank-you speech from one of our volunteers, reflecting on the positive impact volunteering has on both the community and those who give their time to support others.

The celebration helped strengthen relationships between volunteers, fostered a sense of community, and reminded everyone how much their support means to Lucy's Pantry. Most importantly, it was an opportunity to show our appreciation and ensure our volunteers felt recognised and valued for the difference they make every day.

A very big thank you to all our volunteers for your continued support. Lucy's Pantry would not be able to do what it does without you.

Feedback from attendees was positive

It was an enjoyable day

We had fun.

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Big Lunch Event at Walsall College - 15th June 2026

Walsall College’s FE Big Lunch 2026 saw a selection of local volunteers recognised for community contribution and the positive impact of their kind efforts.

12 college students and 18 local people who volunteer for charity, public sector and social enterprises were presented with thank-you certificates by the college’s Chair of Governors, David Wheeler, and enjoyed a networking afternoon tea.

The FE Big Lunch was launched in 2023 to coincide with the Coronation of King Charles III and is now hosted annually by colleges across the region in the form of lunches, afternoon teas and picnics.  The aim is to celebrate the work of local volunteers and community organisations who help make a difference to people’s lives.

Principal and Chief Executive, Jatinder Sharma CBE DL, was delighted to congratulate the volunteers

“The college has held different FE Big Lunches over the last few years, from health and social care students inviting care home residents to the college to our community learning team hosting a get-together at Pleck Library.  Each of these events has been filled with heartwarming moments and inspirational people.”

Jatinder Sharma continued: This year we were keen to bring together some of the unsung heroes – students and local people – who give their time, energy and compassion to support others.

The importance of their voluntary work cannot be emphasised highly enough. Through the support, guidance and friendship they offer, they make a lasting difference to individuals, organisations and the wider community.

This is the college’s way of saying, ‘We see you, and thank you for all that you do.’”

Joan, our Volunteer Pantry Manager, attended the event from Lucy’s Pantry and was awarded a certificate of recognition.

Joan (Lucy's Pantry Manager) with the corporation chair, David Wheeler.