It is National Volunteers’ Week which is an annual celebration of the contribution millions of people make across the UK through volunteering.

Trailblazers has over 80 volunteers, some who are just starting out and others who have been with us for many years.  Last year volunteers delivered in excess of 1500 hours of mentoring to 122 mentees.  An amazing achievement which would not have been possible without your continued commitment, hard work and desire to support the young men and the work of the organization.

WE want to say a big thank you on behalf of the Trailblazers team.  We all appreciate the time you give up to volunteer for the organization and the valuable contribution you are making to the lives of the young men you support.  We also want to recognise the additional challenges in being able to mentor at this difficult time and limited ways you have been able to stay in touch with your mentees.

The work you do is appreciated and valued beyond the Trailblazers team.  Mentees also wished to show their appreciation, here are a few comments:

“My mentor has never given up on me and now I refuse to do the same”

 “Trailblazers helped me find my happy place and now I have my family back and a stable home”

 “My mentor was the only one who stuck by me when I was inside, if it wasn’t for her, I would still be a roadman now – but instead I am building homes”

 Carina Kemp, Chair of Trustees at Trailblazers also offers her thanks:

“On behalf of the whole team at Trailblazers thank you for the tremendous support, understanding and time you dedicate to mentoring young offenders. Working with young offenders to reshape their lives and navigate a new path forwards with them, takes a very special and unique set of skills and focus. As volunteers for Trailblazers you go more than the extra mile and this dedication is truly amazing”