Urban Synergy recently received formal recognition from Lewisham Council for the support and guidance given by its volunteers in helping young people find the self-belief to shape their lives and deal with the pressures of growing up.
The charity was nominated in the Council’s annual ‘Make a Difference’ Awards which recognises the huge contribution volunteers make in the Lewisham area.
The nomination was made in the Group Volunteering Category recognising those who come together in a project or activity to benefit the community.
The award nomination came from one of the colleges in Lewisham where Urban Synergy volunteers mentor some students. It highlighted the work that the volunteers did throughout 2010, including holding a role model seminar for nearly 200 students, with some being offered additional opportunities for work experience.
Urban Synergy volunteers also attended assemblies as guest speakers to give motivational talks to students in Year 11. The various ways in which volunteers have supported groups and individual students is reflected in this exciting first nomination for Urban Synergy in these awards.
Leila Thomas, Urban Synergy’s founder said:
[quote]We are delighted just to be nominated for these awards – it’s so encouraging to know that Lewisham Council and the schools and colleges that we liaise with feel we are having a real positive impact on students.
Our volunteers enjoy working in conjunction with schools, colleges and the families of those we mentor – it’s fantastic to see this all come together and to see young people moving in the right direction with their lives.[/quote]