Celebrating Community Excellence: B:CAN Champions Local Heroes at KAVS Showcase
B:CAN (Birmingham Community Action Network) recently hosted a successful event focused on the King’s Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS), an esteemed recognition regarded as the MBE for voluntary groups in the UK.
The event took place at B:CAN member, Witton Lodge Community Association’s hub in Perry Common and was designed to support and inform local voluntary groups in Birmingham about the nomination process, eligibility, and impact of receiving KAVS, which celebrates exceptional community volunteers and their achievements.
Overseen by B:CAN Chair and Deputy Lieutenant for the West Midlands, Afzal Hussain, who shone a deserved spotlight on the work volunteers do and the impact they have.
“Volunteers are the heartbeat of our neighbourhoods, often working quietly behind the scenes, so it is always uplifting to see them recognised and supported,” he said.
“The King’s Award’ is often described as the MBE for voluntary groups. That sort of prestige shows just how special this honour is. And it’s for life.”
Incredible Support
Representatives from Birmingham based volunteer groups including Erdington Litter Busters, Weareyoungstars and the Friends of Witton Lakes were joined in the room by New Hope Global, Erdington Men’s Health Group and Birmingham Settlement.
Following a special video presentation, Afzal highlighted the incredible impact volunteers make every day, from running food banks and supporting disadvantaged young people to caring for the environment and providing friendship to the lonely.
“These acts of kindness might feel ordinary to those giving their time, but they are truly extraordinary in the lives of those who receive them. The Kings Award’ is about shining a light on these everyday heroes and sharing their stories so that others are inspired to step up and get involved too.”
Simon Topman, a fellow Deputy Lieutenant for the West Midlands, was also in attendance and encouraged people in the room to submit an application.
“Don’t underestimate the power of what you do. Whether your group is brand-new or has been running for decades, the difference you make is worth celebrating. The King’s Award for Voluntary Service says thank you in a very special way – it reminds volunteers that their efforts matter.”
Nominate
The Kings Award for Voluntary Service is issued once a year to recognise the exceptional contribution volunteer groups make to their communities.
The award is a mark of excellence; evidence that a group’s efforts have made a significant and lasting difference to people and places.
Any volunteer-led group in the UK can be nominated if they neet the awards criteria. If you would like to nominate a group for a Kings Award please visit: https://kavs.dcms.gov.uk/ where you can register your details and submit a nomination.
