An inspiring student studying in Ellesmere Port has won an award for volunteering.
West Cheshire College’s Sophie Lees, 20, has been named February’s ‘Volunteer of the Month’ by the nation’s leading youth volunteering charity, vInspired.
Sophie, who is studying art and design at the college, was nominated for the award as a result of her dedication and commitment to helping others.
She said: “I’m delighted to be named Volunteer of the Month by vInspired.
“As the Student Union volunteer officer I am currently working on Volunteers Week which is from February 22.
“We are planning to help make Easter cards at an old people’s home as well as organise a cake sale to raise money for the Association of Young People with ME.”
Goal is to make people smile
Sophie, who has had ME for the past six years and has helped to raise awareness in the college of the condition, added: “My goal in life is to make people smile! I’ve even set up a ‘Smile Box’ within the college. The box is made of reclaimed wood to represent a second chance and is full of positive and inspirational quotes for people.”
As well as receiving the accolade, Sophie also received her V100 Certificate from vInspired to mark 100 hours of volunteering. Her other volunteering work includes helping with art classes and reading at a primary school as well as helping with pop up art sessions for children and young people at the Williamson Art Gallery in Birkenhead.
Caroline Noakes, careers adviser at the college, who nominated Sophie for the award, commented: “Sophie is one of the most inspiring young people that I have ever had the pleasure to know.
“She is so keen in everything that she does and a real ambassador for volunteering.”
Sophie is in her final year at college and hopes to study costume design at university when she finishes.
