We are celebrating the hundreds of volunteers across the UK who have been working hard to keep Emmaus communities and their social enterprises running.
Volunteers’ Week 2025 is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate their dedication and achievements this past year and Emmaus communities are not missing out.
Picnics, barbecues, and other special events have been held for volunteers across the country to say a massive ‘thank you’ and encourage even more people to get involved.
Celebrating Emmaus volunteers
Emmaus communities are hosting special events across the country to thank volunteers for their time and commitment.
At Emmaus North East and Sussex Emmaus, volunteers have been treated to a picnic, while Emmaus Bolton has announced a brand new open day to encourage even more people to get involved with the community’s work.
Emmaus Village Carlton put on a special afternoon tea for its volunteers and championed over two decades of hard work by Marjorie (pictured right), who also celebrated her 90th birthday with the team.
Why volunteering at Emmaus matters
Whether it’s a dedicated volunteer of many years or corporate partners doing one-off volunteering days, their work has been invaluable and makes Emmaus a special place to shop, work, and live.
Their contribution enables staff to run critical day-to-day operations, supporting the 850+ residents at communities, while ensuring that volunteering is both meaningful and memorable.
Many people who volunteer at Emmaus take pride in their work and feel passionate about giving back to their local community; it’s an incredible opportunity that has benefits for everybody involved.
Claire, who volunteers at Sussex Emmaus, said:
“I was inspired to volunteer as Emmaus is so dear to my heart and I have seen so many people benefit from the amazing work that is done – supporting this in any way I can is really important to me.
“There are so many benefits of being a volunteer at Emmaus – every day is varied and there are so many different things to get involved with, from daily tasks to working on future projects.
“Emmaus is such a hidden gem and there is literally something for everyone here.”
How Emmaus communities give back
A core part of our model is about giving back to the wider community, whether that’s with our time, money or resources.
In 2023-24, Emmaus staff and residents volunteered more than 18,000 hours – the equivalent of over £200,000 on the National Living Wage – to causes outside of their communities and social enterprises.
Emmaus communities also gave more than £215,000 via fundraising, donations, and items given away in solidarity with good causes in their local areas.
How to get involved at Emmaus
There are plenty of exciting opportunities at Emmaus communities, from sorting items in our charity shops to trustee roles overseeing the management of your local charity.
Check out our latest volunteering roles today.
One-off volunteering days are also available for local groups, businesses and other charities – just contact [email protected] for more information.