Last week 16 students were recognised for their sterling volunteer work in the local community, with two individuals winning a Student Community Award (SCA).
The SCA scheme highlights the efforts of the many students who help others using their own initiative, perhaps by providing support to others, making a contribution to the local community or showing acts of kindness or good neighbourliness.
SCA winner Adam White, a third year history student, has been volunteering with the Boys’ Brigade for three years, helping at weekly meetings and activities for 6-18 year olds. He also built up a rapport with one of the boys, Ben, who is severely autistic and has been a huge help to Ben and his parents.
Adam, who is originally from Somerset, said:
I’m very passionate about the Boys’ Brigade and am very proud of the fact that I have had a positive influence on the boys’ lives in the three years I’ve been volunteering with the group. Winning an unexpected award for doing something I love is the perfect end to my time at the University.
Second year speech and language therapy student Elicia Westley, also won an Award. Elicia volunteered at local charity Me2 Club based in Woodley which helps children and young people with additional needs to lead as normal life as possible. Following her training with the charity, Elicia was paired with an autistic boy called Tom. Tom’s autism means he struggles with communication and understanding social situations, but her support has meant that Tom had the confidence to not only go on his first weekend away from home, but also perform in the Royal Albert Hall and take part in the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations in Henley last year.
The winners were presented with certificates and cheques for £80 by Sir David Bell at a ceremony on Wednesday 29 May at Foxhill House on the Whiteknights campus.
The Vice-Chancellor Sir David Bell said:
I’m struck not only by the variety of volunteering and charitable work our students are involved in, but by the amount of spare time they devote to these activities. It is worth noting that the awards were not the students’ prime motivation for getting involved but it is very important to recognise their hard work. I’m very impressed by their selfless dedication and commitment, and the impact these students have had on the local community.
Baking society members Hayley Cooper, Hannah Robinson and Katie Brown received a runners-up award for the regular baking sessions they organised for elderly residents at Lakeside Care Home.
Congratulations to our two winners and all of the students who were nominated.
