National Volunteer Week

National Volunteer Week (June 1st-7th) has just finished. Over the week we posted some ‘volunteer spotlights’ on our Facebook page, written by some of our volunteers about what they do and what they enjoy about their time with ATU. The posts are collated here below. But first, ATU Trustee Sue Risdale wanted to acknowledge the contribution that volunteers make:

Sue Risdale - Trustee

“Volunteers are the heart and soul of Andover Trees United. Without them the charity would not exist or continue to thrive, and they have a vital role in shaping a greener future for us all. With unwavering enthusiasm and a willingness to get their hands dirty, they have transformed the landscape and revitalised ecosystems by planting thousands of trees and wildflowers, gathering essential data to monitor wildlife, inspiring young minds, building connections with local schools and businesses, and much more. All of them understand the essential role of trees in mitigating climate change, enhancing biodiversity, and improving air quality, and actively contribute to a sustainable future for generations to come.

Our young volunteers, including the Nature in Harmony Exchange Project youth team, are incredible. By serving as mentors and role models, they play a crucial role in cultivating eco-conscious individuals who will continue the vital work of environmental conservation.

The events, workshops, planting, and creative activities that our volunteers organise and run, foster a sense of belonging and shared responsibility towards the environment in the local community. By building networks of like-minded individuals, these volunteers empower communities to take both individual and collective action, making positive changes in their lives and a lasting impact on their local environment.

Andover Trees United owes its success and impact to the exceptional dedication and tireless efforts of its volunteers. Their passion for environmental conservation, education, and a sustainable future make them invaluable assets. As we express our DEEPEST GRATITUDE to ATU's volunteers, let us also remember the profound impact individuals can make when they come together for a shared cause. With each tree planted, every young mind inspired, and all communities united, ATU's volunteers embody the spirit of positive change, reminding us that together, we can nurture a greener and more sustainable world for all.”

Matt - Youth group member

“Hi I'm Matt, I'm 18 and will be completing my qualification in childcare and education at the end of this month. I have been involved with Andover Trees United since I was in year 8 at school, when I attended with other students every Monday to volunteer. Then when my GCSEs came along I focused on my studies however continued to volunteer in my own time.

Over the past 7/8 years I have been part of many projects and fundraising events at Andover Trees. I have done all sorts over the years from teaching children how to plant their first tree to more recently some outdoor activity woodland training. I love helping out as it really does involve everyone in the community and in a world where the climate is such an uncertainty to know I am doing my bit to help feels so good.”

Natalia - Youth group member

“At Andover Trees I am part of the Nature in Harmony Exchange Project youth team, where I get to volunteer at the woods around a bunch of other likeminded people who all care for the environment we are in. Volunteering at the woods has really helped build my confidence as a person as well as help me make a bunch of new friends. It's the thought of being able to make a positive impact, be it big or small, to people and the environment that keeps me coming back to the woods. I have learnt so much about what our local wildlife is like and volunteering is a direct show of my love of being outdoors. Being a volunteer is one of the best parts of my life and has really improved my mental health. It has opened up so many opportunities to me and I am incredibly thankful for everything volunteering brings to me! I encourage anyone to volunteer in their local community as the difference you can make is beautiful!”

Linda

“I have been in Andover Trees United for 10 years, and my husband as well up until a few years ago when I lost him. It has helped working with like-minded people and seeing all our efforts come to fruition. All our volunteers are so great and we do have a good time even when we are working hard. I do love sowing the seeds at the allotment and looking after them as they grow, and getting out in the community to plant them. Planting fortnight is always good when the schools come up to plant the trees. One of the best things I have done is joining Andover Trees United and hope to continue for as long as I can."

Patrick

“I have been volunteering at Harmony Woods since April 2021. I first saw it advertised on Facebook, talking about survey volunteering, so I signed up for it.

I started doing transect plant surveys and bird-watching surveys simultaneously at the first sessions. From then I attended bat walks, pond dipping, butterfly citizen science, tree and flower ID walks, Peace Day marches, tree ID, Monday volunteering at the allotment, doing Saturday work on expanding the pond, served the builders constructing the Cabin, and helped at the bank holiday Coronation volunteering day.

This volunteering experience has helped me find a purpose, be more active, given me an opportunity to help nature as well as be out amongst it, meet new people, benefit my mental health, help me learn more about the plant side of biodiversity, and gain confidence.”

If you are interested in volunteering for ATU, take a look at our Ways to Help page.