The impact of one of our charity’s pioneers has been celebrated at a special event bringing our community together.
On Friday 24 June, Emmaus Merseyside hosted a celebration event to recognise the huge impact of Nigel Mellor MBE, our charity’s longest-serving volunteer. Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Merseyside, Mr Mark Blundell, joined companions, staff, volunteers, trustees, former trustees and external supporters to celebrate at our Seaforth community building.
Speaking about the event, Nigel said: “I was pleased to share the honour of my MBE with companions, volunteers, staff and trustees (past and present) at Emmaus Merseyside. I was also surprised to be awarded a Founders Medal by Emmaus UK which recognises the contribution made to the work of Emmaus in the UK. It was a very special memorable day.”
Emmaus Merseyside is an award-winning charity that provides a home, training, work opportunities and individual support to people who have experienced homelessness. As well as playing an instrumental role in establishing the Emmaus Merseyside community and social enterprise, Nigel also served as Chair of Trustees for eight years.
Nigel received an MBE in January 2021 for services to homeless and disadvantaged people across Merseyside. At the time, we were unable to host a community celebration due to Covid-19 restrictions, so this event was a chance for Nigel to celebrate this royal recognition with the community he helped to establish.
Eternally grateful
At the event, Nigel also received an Emmaus UK Founder’s Medal in recognition of his considerable voluntary efforts to establish Emmaus Merseyside and to the Emmaus movement in the UK.
Jo Henney, Chair of Emmaus Merseyside, said: “The celebration event was enjoyed by all who attended, and it was great to finally have the chance to celebrate together after the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Nigel has made a considerable contribution to our charity, for which we are eternally grateful. His dedication, hard work and achievements have laid the foundation to enable Emmaus Merseyside and the people we support to flourish.”
The celebration event at Emmaus Merseyside fell within the Month of Community. This nationwide campaign throughout the month of June encourages people to come together to celebrate everything that makes our communities great. Last year, over 15 million people took part in the first ever Month of Community to say cheers to volunteers, connect with neighbours, support a cause, or simply to say thank you.