Room to Reward (www.roomtoreward.org) are delighted to announce that more than 1000 inspirational volunteers from charities and community groups across the U.K. have been given a free short break in recognition of their dedication to making a difference and helping those in need..
The breaks have been made possible by Room to Reward, a unique charity borne out of the hospitality sector. The initiative works on a simple premise. Hotels donate their anticipated unsold rooms, charities and other voluntary groups nominate their Hidden Heroes for a well-earned break, Room to Reward make it happen.
1000 volunteers from organisations of all shapes and sizes – from St. John Ambulance, SCOPE and SSAFA to local foodbanks and small-but-vital charities providing lifelines in their local communities – have now been nominated to take some time back for themselves and relax with a short break.
Adam Terpening, Charity Director of Room to Reward, said: “We are absolutely delighted to reach 1000 nominations. Every day, we have the pleasure of reading inspiring stories of ordinary people doing extraordinary things, giving up their time to make a difference where it’s needed most. It’s been a privilege to arrange these breaks and the exciting thing is we know this is just the beginning.”
Founded in 2015 by Nicolas Roach, Chairman of the Harbour Hotels Group, Room to Reward now partners with over 500 hotels located throughout the U.K, from major groups such as Jurys Inn to iconic properties like The Dorchester.
“The fantastic support of our hotel partners has enabled us to give some memorable experiences to some truly wonderful people,” said Mr. Terpening. “We all – either personally or through family and friends – have benefited from the work of charities and other groups, many of whom couldn’t survive without the passion of their volunteers. We are lucky to have them and it’s humbling to be able to give just a little bit back.”
Over 500 organisations have joined Room to Reward’s journey to say ‘thank you’ to their volunteers, a number that is increasing by the day.
“Volunteers are the heart of our charity,” says Lieutenant-General Sir Andrew Gregory, CEO of SSAFA. “One of the challenges we face is how we can value the huge commitment they give to our clients. By working with Room to Reward, we have been able to show that their work really makes a difference and give them something tangible back in return. We have found the partnership inspirational.”
Amy Senior, Volunteer Programme Manager at Whizz-Kidz, agrees. “We are fortunate to have the support of lots of tremendously dedicated, passionate and talented volunteers, and it can be a little frustrating for us as staff that our budget cannot stretch to a way to thank them adequately. Working with Room to Reward is incredible as we are able to recognise those volunteers who really go above and beyond with a much-deserved trip away at some fantastic hotels. It’s really valuable for us as an organisation to recognise that care and thank our volunteers wherever we can.”
“It’s an honour and a privilege to volunteer,” said Paul Claro, a nominated Hidden Hero from Dreamflight who enjoyed a break at Christchurch Harbour Hotel and Spa. “But these breaks are extremely important and special to people like myself. Thank you.”
Room to Reward aims to give a well-earned break to another 1000 volunteers this year and welcomes nominations from new partners. Find out more at www.roomtoreward.org.