Sophie hailed as 'complete inspiration' (From Kidderminster Shuttle)

Sophie hailed as 'complete inspiration'

7:00am Monday 14th January 2013 in News

A SELFLESS teenage volunteer has received a new year gift in return for her year-round dedication to the community.

Sophie Brown, 17, has been named regional winner for the West Midlands in the Best Young Volunteer category of the vInspired National Awards, which celebrate the achievements and dedication of young volunteers.

Sophie, of Kidderminster, who volunteers at a retirement home in the town, is hoping her nomination will inspire other young people to give up their spare time to help others.

She began visiting the home while volunteering as part of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme but decided to continue after striking up a friendship with one of the residents. She also volunteers at the Blue Cross animal charity.

Sophie said: “It’s such an honour to be presented with this award. You don’t volunteer to get awards – knowing you’re helping people is enough motivation but it’s great to know that people appreciate what I do and I hope that this might inspire other young people to give volunteering a go.”

Terry Ryall, vInspired chief executive, added: “Sophie is a complete inspiration. As a regional winner in the Best Young Volunteer category, you need to demonstrate a real enthusiasm for volunteering and have shown a real dedication to a volunteering project that has achieved a positive outcome for the community.

“Sophie has displayed empathy for others and has shown great ability to build positive relationships while volunteering.

She should be immensely proud of her achievements.”

National award winners will be named in March.