They’re only two small words. But they can make a huge impact.
Saying thank you when someone has given their time, knowledge or energy to supporting others should be a natural reaction in YFC, and believe me, I am extremely grateful for all the time and support you give to YFC.
Our charitable organisation relies on thousands of volunteers who give their time freely to make sure activities and events happen at clubs, county federations, areas and nationally.
From the committees who volunteer their time to ensure their clubs meet regularly to the judges and stewards who share their expertise at our rallies, shows and competitions. They could choose to spend their spare time focusing on their own lives. But they chose YFC.
Of course, there are personal benefits to volunteering for YFC too. The skills, confidence and friendships gained are invaluable. And that’s not to mention how much helping others can improve your mental wellbeing.
But perhaps in the busyness of it all, we might sometimes forget to thank the people who actively choose to support our organisation. We might take for granted the members on our advisory committees or the parents and supporters who always help with the rally – believing their enduring love for the organisation ensures they stay involved.
But imagine how much better it feels to be appreciated. To be rewarded for the time we give with a simple but heartfelt thank you, can make all the difference.
This Volunteers Week (1-7 June), please accept my thanks for the work you do to ensure YFC happens every week. I know how many hours our volunteers dedicate to YFC. It does not go unnoticed.
Thank you for the part YOU play in changing rural young people’s lives for the better.
Your support is helping to shape the next generation who will represent and strengthen our rural communities in the future.
Let’s share the kindness this Volunteers Week and ensure we all say thank you to those who support our YFC.
John Lee OBE DL NFYFC President 2025-26
