Celebrating our volunteers with a special Volunteer Recognition Tree

On Wednesday 12 November, we came together at the Royal Concert Hall to celebrate our amazing volunteers. Around 80 joined us for the unveiling of our new Volunteer Recognition Tree. A permanent installation in the Concert Hall café. It honours those who have volunteered for five, ten, or more than 15 years.
 
The tree, designed by artist Claudia Ashley-Brown, is a striking piece of wall art featuring engraved leaves. Each leaf highlights a volunteer milestone. Bronze for five years, silver for ten, and gold for fifteen or more. Together, these leaves represent an amazing 1,800 years of volunteering! A testament to the dedication and kindness that make Glasgow Life what it is.

Chief Executive, Kay Morrison, officially unveiled the tree. After the unveiling, volunteers rushed to find their leaf and take photos. Others caught up with friends over cake and conversation. It was a night of smiles, stories and pride.

For over 35 years, Michael McEleney has been helping support disability sports. Michael has used a wheelchair for 43 years, and he uses his experience to coach many children and adults. He helps them learn new skills and feel more confident.

“After 35 years of volunteering with Glasgow Life, the best reward is still the same,” Michael says. “I love seeing someone’s face light up when they do something they once thought they couldn’t. Sharing what I’ve learned since I started using a wheelchair 43 years ago, and watching people of all ages discover what they can do, is what keeps me coming back.

“The Volunteer Recognition Tree is a great way to celebrate volunteers from all across our community, and Wednesday’s event showed that spirit perfectly.”

Lorraine Toner, Volunteer Manager, shared her thanks:

“We are celebrating our valued volunteers. For some time now, we have wanted to do something special to recognise their incredible commitment. Our Volunteer Recognition Tree is a small token to show our gratitude. We hope they enjoy sharing it with friends and family for many years to come.

"I also want to thank the colleagues who have helped make our Volunteer Recognition Tree a reality."

Kay Morrison, Chief Executive, added:

“Volunteers are at the heart of so much of what we do. The positive impact they make in our communities is enormous, and our tree is a celebration of them. On behalf of everyone at Glasgow Life, I want to say a huge thank you for all you do.”

The tree will grow each year as we add more leaves to mark new milestones. Our Volunteer Recognition Tree is just one way we show appreciation for the people who give their time to help others enjoy a great Glasgow life.