With nominations now open, the West Midlands Lieutenancy, supported by United by 2022 – the official charity of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games - are inviting members of the public to take part and share the stories of inspirational volunteers who are making a real impact in the region.
For more information, and to submit a nomination, visit https://www.unitedby2022.com/50forwm50/
From March to April 2024, entrants can nominate themselves or others via the United by 2022 website. Volunteers of all backgrounds and ages, helping their communities in any of the seven local authorities in the West Midlands - Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall or Wolverhampton - can be nominated for recognition.
From these nominations, a dedicated judging panel will select 50 volunteers from each of the seven local authorities, who will be invited to join the ‘Big Thank You Bash’ in June, a special celebration event. Those 350 volunteers will then be narrowed down to just 50, and from that final shortlist, a single volunteer will be chosen for their outstanding contribution.
As a special thank you on behalf of the West Midlands region, the chosen volunteer will have a tram on the West Midlands Metro named in their honour, as a lasting tribute to their commitment to volunteering and positive impact on their local community.
Sir John Crabtree OBE, Lord-Lieutenant of the West Midlands, said: “We were determined to mark the 50th Anniversary of the West Midlands both to recognise the 3 million residents who come together to make this such a very special place, but also to celebrate the extraordinary volunteering we witness almost every day.
Heart-warming doesn't begin to describe it. It's such a privilege to have an opportunity to focus a spotlight on some of these wonderful people.”
Nicola Turner, CEO of United by 2022, said: “We’re so pleased to support this important campaign. Volunteering played such a crucial role in the success of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, bringing people together from every walk of life to create once-in-a-lifetime memories and a long-term legacy for the region.
“We continue to be inspired by the work of volunteers across our region and this is a fantastic way to celebrate their contribution and say thank you for their unwavering dedication. Nominations are welcome from all ages, communities and sectors in the West Midlands so we encourage people to get involved and share their stories.”
Nominations for the 50forWM50 campaign are now open. Nominations can be submitted from across the West Midlands region, in all communities and sectors, and there is no age limit for nominees, or time limit for how long the individual has volunteered - it could be one month, one year, or 50 years!
