A READING based charity that helps children learn to read has been recognised as an Investing In Volunteers achiever.
It is the third time that ABC to Read has been awarded the UK quality standard, which assesses organisations with volunteers against six quality areas: vision, planning, inclusion, recruiting and welcoming, supporting, and valuing and developing.
Having the mark shows that a group values its volunteers and demonstrates a commitment to volunteering within the organisation.
Marcia Rowlinson, ABC to Read CEO, said: “Our mission wouldn’t be possible without our volunteers.
“The amount they invest in the children they mentor through time and skill is outstanding.
“We are delighted to have been recognised once again for valuing them and committing to support them fully, as they serve our local youngsters.”
ABC to Read was proved to excel in all aspects of working with its volunteers.
The Chair of UKVF, the Awarding Body, said: “UKVF is delighted to announce ABC to Read‘s successful achievement of this award.
“They have demonstrated a real commitment to volunteering, proving that their volunteer management policies and procedures meet nationally recognised standards.”
On average, 500 children are encouraged and mentored by an ABC to Read volunteer every year.
And around 12,000 hours are invested annually invested into improving not only their reading ability but their enjoyment of the pastime as well as their general attitudes and confidence.
The charity has many vacancies for volunteers that it would like to fill, and increasing numbers of children who need catch-up support. ABC to Read are actively looking for new volunteers to take part in training.
Schools that are in need of additional reading support are also being actively encouraged to sign up for ABC to Read mentors.
For more information, or to volunteer, email: info@abctoread.org.uk or visit the group’s website at: www.abctoread.org.uk
