Deadline extended for RYA Volunteer Awards 2020
by Susie Nation-Grainger 27 Mar 05:55 GMT
RYA Volunteer Awards © Paul Wyeth / RYA
Do you know a hardworking volunteer who really makes a difference in helping others to get out on the water? Or someone who keeps the club on an even keel? If so, the deadline to make a nomination for the RYA Volunteer Awards has been extended until 1st May 2020.
The RYA Volunteer Awards recognise the outstanding contributions made by volunteers throughout the UK. They are divided into four categories RYA Awards (National and Regional), RYA Community Awards, The Francis Elkin Award and the Family Award.
"Due to the challenges our clubs and centres are currently facing we have extended the deadline for nominations" explains RYA Programmes Manager Michelle Gent. "Even during these uncertain times there are thousands of volunteers all over the UK dedicating their time and expertise and not expecting anything in return.
"Not only are the RYA Volunteer Awards a brilliant opportunity to say thank you to your volunteers, but they can also shine a spotlight on the fantastic work that goes on at a regional and national level" she concluded.
All of the award winners and their guests will be invited to a special presentation ceremony and luncheon in London in November.
Lucas (19) who has been a member of Rudyard Lake since he was five-year-old, was presented with a 2019 RYA Volunteer Award in the Youth category for his efforts teaching, coaching and supporting junior sailors.
Speaking at the ceremony, Lucas said: "Volunteering has involved me in teaching, coaching and sailing alongside other people, which has given me confidence and independence because I think for myself as well as others in my Senior Instructor role. This is definitely building me as a person."
Erica Caswell of Yorkshire Dales Sailing Club was also presented with an award for her Lifetime Commitment to Yorkshire Dales Sailing Club.
"I get a great deal of satisfaction from seeing lots of boats out on the water, with children out sailing and windsurfing and lots of people helping. It's a lot of hard work and organisation but it's great when you see complete beginners progress to become really competent sailors and then stalwart members of the club."
Nominations must be from an RYA affiliated club, centre, association or region and close on 01 May 2020. To find out more about the award categories and nomination criteria visit www.rya.org.uk/go/volunteerawards