Today kicks off the national Volunteers’ Week (June 2–8). If you’ve ever considered volunteering but weren’t sure where to start, a lively and hands-on event in the heart of Norwich might be just the inspiration you need.
This Thursday 5 June, the Forum in Norwich will be buzzing with energy, music, crafts, and community spirit as the Volunteer Extravaganza returns – bigger and better than before. Organised by Voluntary Norfolk’s Sector Support Team, this year’s event coincides with Volunteers’ Week, a national celebration of the people who give their time to help others.
Now in its second year, the Extravaganza has become a highlight of Norfolk’s volunteer calendar. Building on the success of 2024’s debut event, this year’s gathering will feature 70 charities and voluntary groups offering a glimpse into the vibrant and diverse world of volunteering across the county.
But don’t expect rows of leaflets and polite conversations behind tables. This isn’t your typical volunteer fair. Instead, the event is designed to be interactive and immersive. From arts and crafts to music-making, animal care to health support, visitors will be able to experience the reality of volunteering through a range of engaging activity spaces.
“We’re delighted to be bringing this event back,” says Tasha Cobb from Voluntary Norfolk, one of the organisers, “and be able to offer Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise groups across Norfolk the opportunity to showcase their incredible work again.
“We know the impact volunteers have in strengthening communities, improving wellbeing and contributing to the local economy. That’s why getting more people into volunteering is so important. We want this event to give everyone a taste of what it feels like to make a difference.”
The aim, she says, is to reach people who may not have thought about volunteering before. “The event seeks to give people who may not have thought about volunteering before the opportunity to get a meaningful, hands-on experience.”
Why it matters
Volunteers are often described as the lifeblood of local communities – and not without reason. Whether it’s delivering meals, mentoring young people, restoring wildlife habitats or simply checking in on neighbours, volunteers quietly support vital services and human connections that make Norfolk a better place to live.
Yet, despite this, volunteering rates have declined over the past decade. Many charities and community organisations are feeling the impact.
“I know so many people in Norfolk are really generous in terms of giving their time to help causes they care about,” says Cobb. “But the simple truth is that volunteering numbers have declined over the last decade and many voluntary, charity and social enterprise organisations are struggling as a result.” This is why events like this are so important – to remind people just how fulfilling and impactful volunteering can be.
And with so many organisations attending – from small grassroots groups to large national charities – there will be something to match every interest and availability.
A week of celebration
The Extravaganza is one part of a week-long series of events marking Volunteers’ Week 2025. Across Norfolk, Voluntary Norfolk and partner groups are hosting garden parties, coffee mornings, and community get-togethers to say thank you to those who give their time.
One of the week’s highlights will be the Helen Johnson Awards, taking place on Friday 6th June. Named after a long-serving trustee and chair of Voluntary Norfolk, the awards honour individuals who have gone above and beyond in their volunteering roles. It’s a fitting tribute to the spirit of dedication and compassion that volunteers embody.
Come and discover your role
The Volunteer Extravaganza offers something for everyone, whether you’re an experienced volunteer looking for new opportunities or a newcomer curious about where you might fit in. Even giving a few hours a month can have a huge impact. And it’s not just about helping others – volunteering can be incredibly rewarding personally. You gain skills, confidence, friendships, and a sense of belonging.
“This is why we’ve put on this extravaganza,” says Cobb. “If you’ve ever thought about helping a cause you care about locally, please come along for a day of discovery, inspiration, and celebration of community spirit.”
From music therapy to conservation projects, supporting families to helping run events, the possibilities are almost endless. And if you’re not sure where you’d fit, the team at Voluntary Norfolk and the participating organisations are more than happy to help you find the right match.
So why not take the first step?
The Volunteer Extravaganza takes place on Thursday 5th June, from 10am to 3pm, at the Forum in Norwich. Entry is free and open to all. Full details, including a list of participating organisations, can be found here.
Whether you leave with a new volunteering role or simply a sense of inspiration, you’ll be part of something that’s helping to make Norfolk more connected, compassionate, and resilient.
This article is based on a Voluntary Norfolk press release, compiled by ChatGPT and edited by East Anglia Bylines.
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