The Anguilla Red Cross hosted a special ceremony to honour its volunteers for their unwavering dedication over the past year.
The gathering took place in the Governor’s Office garden on 3 December to recognise International Volunteers Day, which takes place annually on 5 December.
Anguilla Red Cross director Pamela Riley and patron Governor Julia Crouch presented certificates to several volunteers who selected for their contributions.
The governor praised the spirit of volunteerism in Anguilla, noting the challenges the community has faced – from natural disasters to rising violence – and the power of coming together.
“When we stand together, when we give of ourselves freely, we can overcome anything,” she said in a speech at the event, describing volunteering as “one of the most powerful forces for good in our society”.
Recalling a recent community clean-up, she highlighted the rewards of giving time: “It was hot and the rubbish was dirty – yet the laughter and camaraderie made it a most enjoyable morning.”
“There was a real sense of pride as we worked side by side, transforming our surroundings and proving that when a community comes together, the simplest acts can make a big difference.”
She added that such efforts demonstrate “the spirit of unity, the joy of giving back and a sense of belonging to a purpose bigger than ourselves”.
The governor commended the Anguilla Red Cross for its work in fundraising, first aid training, regional emergency response and youth engagement through its Youth in Action programme.
She acknowledged other volunteering organisations at the event including the American University of Anguilla, the New Anglia Medical School, ADRA, We Care Organisation, and AXA Cares Food Bank.
The governor described them as “golden threads that weaved together make our Anguillian community stronger and more resilient”.
Concluding, Governor Crouch celebrated the awardees: “Your dedication and selflessness have made a tangible difference in the lives of others, and you embody the very best of what volunteering stands for.”
She encouraged everyone to continue contributing: “Whether seen or unseen – from mentoring a young person, supporting disaster relief or simply lending a hand to a neighbour in need – every act of volunteerism makes a difference.
