Volunteers Week 2021

A time to say thanks: Recognising the contribution of volunteers to communities during coronavirus.

 

Volunteers’ Week takes place between 1-7 June every year and is a time to recognise and thank our volunteers. During an exceptionally difficult year, NRAS has been overwhelmed by the support it has received from our:

  • NRAS is Here for You Volunteers
  • Volunteer Group Leaders and Helpers
  • Research and Focus Group Participants
  • Staff Support Volunteers

We would like to take the time to recognise all the volunteers who have helped NRAS support, inform and empower the RA and JIA communities during the last 12 months and to thank those who usually volunteer but have not been able to because of the pandemic. We would also like to welcome volunteers about to take on new roles eg leading our digital groups.

The coronavirus pandemic has rightly raised the profile of volunteering and more people than ever are aware of the immense contribution being made every single day by the UK’s volunteers.  Thank you to all our amazing NRAS Volunteers – we cannot name you all individually but we simply could not do what we do without your help and support.

Volunteer Spotlight – Suruthi Gnanenthiran

I started volunteering with NRAS a few months ago and it has allowed me to get involved with some of their ongoing work and “chip in” with my two cents. I have always wanted to get involved to help others, like myself, with arthritis but never really knew how. NRAS has given me the opportunity to do this for which I am so grateful.

I really like the way there are so many ways to get involved, whether it be with patient research, planning events or fundraising. One of my favourite moments so far was the Facebook Live session I did with other members of the Young Voices Panel for the Wear Purple campaign last year. We spoke about our experiences with JIA throughout our childhood and it was really nice to see that other people found our experience relatable and helpful. I have also really enjoyed getting to know the other members of the Young Voices group. It has been so nice to know that I’m not alone in my experiences and being able to connect with people who really understand you. I’m so excited to see what the future holds and get involved in more projects with NRAS!

NRAS in 2023

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