AN ORGANISATION supporting volunteers in Dorset is keen to recognise companies that make a difference.

Private, public and statutory organisations are increasingly getting involved in employee volunteering, which Volunteer Centre Dorset says enhances the lives of others in the community as well as supporting staff development and adding to the profile of organisations taking part.

The centre is looking to recognise organisations making contributions to the community at its annual awards evening in October.

Deputy manager of Volunteer Centre Dorset Craig Womble said: "We are finding more groups encouraging their staff to get involved in volunteering and supporting the local community.

"Larger organisations often prefer to support worthy causes in large and small groups as a team building exercise, as not only are they giving back but it really develops relationships outside a work setting.

"Skills and confidence really come to the fore and the sense of worth and achievement is immense.

"We are finding that people really enjoy a challenge where they feel they can make a difference."

He added: "Employee volunteering is being encouraged more widely these days with many groups supporting this and allowing days during the year for participation be this as an individual or a group.

"Despite huge numbers already involved in volunteering more people are needed for short long term or project work.

"Whilst it is a challenge to have projects on hold awaiting such offers it’s great to get groups and individuals involved.

"The skills that organisations possess within their workforce are immensely valuable.

"Therefore skill sharing is an important aspect of employee volunteering, and as such often vital to small community organisations."

The Volunteer Centre's annual awards evening is being held on October 29 at the Dorford Centre in Dorchester and will recognises businesses, individuals and others involved in volunteering.

There is a category for employee volunteering.

Last year was the inaugural year of the category and the award was won by Waitrose Dorchester for its work within the local community.

The awards evening is centred around Make a difference week in October to recognise the contributions of volunteers.

Any businesses or anyone wishing to nominate a business for the award can contact the Volunteer Centre on 01305 269214 or email awards@volunteeringdorset.org.uk

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