Local volunteers have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take part in Calderdale’s 50th birthday and its biggest ever celebration of culture.
There are just weeks to go until Calderdale turns 50 on 1 April 2024, and excitement is building for the showstopping Year of Culture(external link) (CultureDale) that will mark this milestone.
Calderdale Council has launched its CultureDale volunteer programme, giving local people lots of ways to get involved in the 12-month events programme that kicks off on Saturday 13 April 2024.
The exciting volunteer roles include stewarding at events, helping to deliver creative workshops, spreading the word about CultureDale, promoting opportunities and supporting disabled people, their families and carers to access events. Full details of all the roles can be found at www.culturedale.co.uk/volunteers(external link).
Cllr Jenny Lynn, Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Services and Communities, said:
“Our Year of Culture will bring inspiration, entertainment, economic value, lasting impacts, inclusion and memories that will last a lifetime. There will be one-of-a-kind events, festivals, exhibitions, workshops, theatre, music, dance, sport and much more for everyone to enjoy. A real showcase of Calderdale’s rich history, amazing landscapes, incredible people, creativity, talent and diversity.
“We’re looking for passionate and dedicated volunteers to join us in what will be a landmark chapter in Calderdale’s story, and to make history by being part of its golden anniversary celebrations.
“Help to champion our place, bring joy to people’s lives throughout the Year of Culture and give a warm Calderdale welcome, by taking part in a once-in-a-lifetime volunteering role.”
The Council is partnering with the VSI Alliance Volunteer Hub to deliver the CultureDale volunteer programme.
Kate Hornby, Volunteer Hub Coordinator, said:
“VSI Alliance Volunteer Hub is thrilled to be involved with CultureDale, Calderdale’s Year of Culture, to celebrate the borough’s 50th birthday. We will have lots of exciting volunteering opportunities for our current volunteers or people who want to try out volunteering for the first time. Come and be part of the celebration!”
Victoria Mostyn, Job Coach at Calderdale College, added:
“We will be encouraging our students to take part in CultureDale. CutureDale is a fantastic opportunity for Calderdale and is inclusive, accessible and sounds like great fun for all, increasing community participation for students. They have some fantastic volunteering opportunities where students can gain skills and experience to increase employment opportunities.”
Volunteering with CultureDale is an inclusive experience – anyone aged 14+ from any background can take part, and roles and hours can be adapted to suit the volunteer. Training will be provided, so no previous events experience is needed, and expenses will be covered.
For details of how to apply to be a CultureDale volunteer at any point during the Year of Culture, or to attend an information session, head to www.culturedale.co.uk/volunteers(external link).
For more information, please watch the short films(external link) or email culturedale@calderdale.gov.uk
The CultureDale volunteer programme supports the Vision 2024 for Calderdale themes of kindness, talent and distinctiveness. April 2024 marks Calderdale’s 50th birthday and there are just weeks to go! Get involved on X with #VisionCdale2024 and find out more at www.calderdale.gov.uk/vision