Great North Air Ambulance volunteers contribute £100,000 worth of time
Volunteers for the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS) have been praised for their efforts after they dedicated 5,496 hours of their time helping the charity last year.
The remarkable contribution is equivalent to 687 working days, which is estimated to be more than £100,000 worth of work based on average UK earnings.
GNAAS currently has 149 volunteers forming its dedicated ‘ground crew’, who kindly give up their spare time to support the charity in the North East, Cumbria and the Isle of Man.
From delivering talks and manning stalls at events to emptying collection boxes, their efforts play a vital role in helping the charity reach communities right across the region.
Sophie Snowdon, community and volunteer lead at GNAAS, said: “Our volunteers give their time so generously, and bring incredible passion and enthusiasm to every activity they get involved in.
“Whether they’re speaking to supporters, helping at fundraising events, or assisting in our offices, their commitment makes a genuine difference, and enables us to achieve so much more than we could alone.”
Recently the charity held a celebration event for their volunteers at their headquarters near Eaglescliffe featuring talks from their CEO Joseph Garcia MBE, Dr Natalie Lonsdale and Sophie, as well as the opportunity to see the helicopter up close.
Speaking at the event, Mr Garcia told the volunteers: “GNAAS would not be the organisation it is today without your commitment, enthusiasm, generosity and belief in what we do.
“Every pound raised, every conversation started, every cup of coffee served, every event supported and every hour volunteered, contributes to a chain of events that ultimately enables our crews to reach patients when they need us the most.
“We really appreciate everything you do.”
The charity is now looking to grow its volunteer team across the North East, Cumbria and the Isle of Man, with several roles available including coffee house crew member, community speaker, collection box steward, fundraiser and events assistant.
Sophie added: “Volunteering with GNAAS is a fantastic way to support your local air ambulance while meeting new people, developing skills and making a real impact in your community.
“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported us over the years, whether they've volunteered regularly or helped out at a single event, as it all makes a difference.”