Warrington based volunteer Shannon Rowlands of Miller Homes was the star of the show at the company’s recent ‘Miller Meet’ event at Birchwood Park in Warrington. Shannon was awarded for her generous contribution to the community whilst working with the Warrington Youth Zone.
The organisation provides a variety of services to children & young people across Warrington. A new ‘buddy system’ was implemented within the club as a means to support the children. The system was created for young people who find it extremely difficult to initiate social interaction. An individual is matched with a ‘buddy’ to aid support through social situations, this prevents children from becoming socially isolated.
Shannon started her journey as a ‘buddy’ attending the Youth Zone for a few hours once a week. She then began mentoring a young member of the group, saying: “we would attend the youth club once a week for a couple hours and join in the fun activities. Whilst doing so we would try to make friends, get to know them by asking about their week and discussing exciting events like holidays etc.”
The ‘buddy system’ has been very rewarding for Shannon, she said “knowing that you can help children and young people by essentially being a friend who helps them with social tasks is the most rewarding experience I have ever endured”.
Shannon has since continued her charity contributions, mentoring another young member of the youth group. She has made a tremendous effort in her volunteering, regularly meeting with her ‘buddy’ at local hang out spots, encouraging social interaction and even supporting them by performing karaoke in front of the other members at the Youth Zone!
The Miller Meet event was hosted by Miller Homes at Birchwood Park which is where the North West office is based. As a treat for its team, the homebuilder hosted an afternoon of fun and games on the Green, as well as giving employees an update on the business in a ‘This Morning’ style presentation.
Clare Noakes, Sales Director for Miller Homes in the North West said: “We’re so proud of Shannon and wanted to recognise her for the wonderful things she’s been doing in the local community. We have a great team on our hands and feel it’s very important to reward their efforts both within and outside of the workplace. Well done Shannon!”
A brand-new Warrington Youth Zone is set to open in the summer of 2022. The club will be open seven days a week for children and young people and there is still opportunity to volunteer.
