Volunteer of the Month - February

Celebrating Remarkable Campaign Volunteering

This February, we are thrilled to recognize an outstanding volunteer, Sophie Lees. Nominated by West Cheshire College for her exceptional advocacy and campaigning volunteering, Sophie embodies resilience and emotional intelligence. Her positive spirit shines through her work, making her a deserving recipient of the v100 award.

Volunteer working on a campaign, smiling and engaging with the community

Sophie’s Journey

Sophie has been a beacon of hope and positivity, despite facing personal challenges. Her commitment to volunteering stems from a deep desire to raise awareness about Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), a condition she personally battles. She has created impactful content, including a video that garnered over 900 views on YouTube, effectively educating the public on the condition.

“To say she is an outstanding volunteer is an understatement,” says Caroline Noakes, who nominated Sophie. “She is always setting herself targets and thinking of others.”

Interview with Sophie Lees

Q: How does it feel to be Volunteer of the Month?

A: It’s an incredible honor. I volunteer because I love it, not for recognition, so being awarded is a real bonus.

Q: Tell us about your volunteering…

A: I recently made a video raising awareness of ME, where participants wore a sand-filled jacket to simulate the condition’s exhaustion. It’s important to raise awareness about ME’s impact, which is often misunderstood.

Challenges and Triumphs

Despite occasional awkward moments, such as approaching unfamiliar students at college, Sophie maintains a positive attitude. Her experiences have boosted her confidence and communication skills, essential traits for effective advocacy.

Future Goals

Sophie aspires to continue raising awareness about ME and spreading positivity. Her goal is simple yet profound: to make as many people smile as possible.

We invite you to read more about our Volunteer of the Month - February and discover other inspiring stories, like Volunteer of the Month - April and Volunteer of the Month - May 2016.

Explore more about how volunteering can make a difference in the areas of Homelessness & Poverty and Disability Inclusion.