Volunteer Week - See How We're Celebrating, And Find Out How YOU Can Win A Prize!

Volunteer Week - See How We're Celebrating, And Find Out How YOU Can Win A Prize!

Posted by Leanne Sturrock on 1st Jun 2017

It’s the first of June, the sun is shining, and while we’re officially heading into British Summer Time (it’s almost here, everybody!), there are other reasons to celebrate, too.

Not only does the 1st of June mark the beginning of ‘the Great Outdoors month,’ but it also plays host to the first seven days of Volunteer Week!

What is Volunteer Week?

Despite the connotations of its name (a week being seven days), Volunteer Week actually runs annually from the 1st of June until the 12th. Throughout the occasion, thousands of people across the globe show their appreciation and respect of volunteers, celebrating their efforts and raising further awareness for a myriad of causes. In fact, there are over 21 million volunteers in the UK alone (statistics for those who volunteer at least once annually) – on a global scale, that number is of course much, much larger.

Why Do People Volunteer?

People choose to volunteer for a number of different reasons: some want to make a positive difference to their community; others are simply passionate about a cause close to their heart (for example, animal rights/care/conservation.) Volunteers are considered to be vital members of our society, and although few seek the glory and recognition that they do so deserve, it must surely be nice to be celebrated for 12 days straight per year!

Ultimately, though, there is much to be proud about when volunteering: there are many kind-hearted altruists who give up their spare time to make a difference to others, and a little recognition is the least that they deserve. With that in mind, The Great Projects will be spending the next 12 days celebrating some of our very own volunteers, by sharing some of their stories, photos and overall wonderful experiences!

What Will The Great Projects Be Doing Over Volunteer Week?

There will be plenty of exciting things going on between now and the 12th of June, including a round-up of the incredible volunteer achievements of the last year. We’ll also be bringing to light the necessity for more global volunteers, as well sharing our own volunteers’ favourite experiences on their chosen trip!

What About The Rest Of The Month?

Don’t forget that we’ve got a number of fantastic projects on last-minute availability – head here now to find your place on your dream project, before all of the spaces are gone! We’ll also be posting plenty of updates from our existing projects, as well as sharing some very exciting news about a brand-new trip that we’ll be launching soon…be sure to keep your eyes peeled for that!

Finally: do you want to be in with the chance of WINNING a £75 Amazon voucher? June plays host to Nature Photography Day and, on the 15th of June, one lucky winner will be selected from a number of budding nature photographers as the recipient of our prize. Want in? All you have to do is keep an eye on our Facebook over the next few days, and we’ll explain the rules over there! A winner will be selected by an impartial photography expert, with the winner being announced on the afternoon of June 15th. Good luck!


Share this Article...

Share this article with your friends and followers by using the social media buttons below.


Leave a Comment...

Wanting to add something to this story or just let us know your thoughts? Just leave your comments below. Please be aware that all comments will be moderated: abusive behaviour or self-promotion will not be allowed.

500 characters remaining

Has this blog inspired you to volunteer? If so, why not enquire today? Simply fill out an enquiry form, and allow a member of our travel team to assist with your query! Please note that blog comments are not monitored by the travel team, so any questions related to bookings may be missed.


Featured Videos


Experience The Namibia Wildlife Sanctuary

See what you could get up to as a volunteer at the Namibia Wildlife Sanctuary! This volunteer project offers you the chance to get up close and personal with some of the country's most iconic species.

Discover The Great White Shark Project

Come face to face with one of the world’s most misunderstood predators whilst aiding great white shark conservation. As a volunteer, not only will you get the incredible opportunity to dive with sharks, but you will also assist the team in raising awareness of the great white as you work alongside tourists and local school children to provide them with knowledge of the local environment and the importance of living in harmony with South Africa’s marine life.

Volunteers Review Their Experience at the Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Sanctuary

Volunteers talk about their recent experience at the Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Sanctuary in Borneo.

Latest Blog Arcticles


It’s Orangutan Release Time!

It’s Orangutan Release Time!

12 more orangutans have been successfully released back...

Meet 12 orangutan candidates up for release!

Meet 12 orangutan candidates up for release!

Thanks to the hard work and dedication of the Borneo...

Linda's Samboja Lestari Orangutan Adventure

Linda's Samboja Lestari Orangutan Adventure

Linda Duchin volunteered at the Samboja Lestari Orangutan...

Two Rewilded Cheetahs, Two Years On - A Remarkable Rewilding Story

Two Rewilded Cheetahs, Two Years On - A Remarkable Rewilding Story

Join us on a remarkable rewilding journey as we revisit the...

Janet & Mick's Unforgettable Gorilla Adventure

Janet & Mick's Unforgettable Gorilla Adventure

Janet and Mick joined The Great Gorilla Project last year...

The Team Returns - James & Lauren's South Africa Experience

The Team Returns - James & Lauren's South Africa Experience

Lauren and James have returned and are ready to relay tales...

The Great Projects On Tour: Upcoming Staff Trips

The Great Projects On Tour: Upcoming Staff Trips

Team members Lauren and James, joined colleague Georgia to...

Lynne's Top Tips For Volunteering at the Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Sanctuary

Lynne's Top Tips For Volunteering at the Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Sanctuary

Volunteer Lynne Coe shares her valuable tips on what to...


Where you can go
Contact Info
UK Office
The Great Traveller Ltd,
3 Dairy Yard
Star Street
Ware, Hertfordshire
SG12 7DX
United Kingdom

Opening hours:
   Mon-Fri 8:30am–5:30pm
   Sat 10am-4pm

T: +44(0) 208 885 4987