On 27 June, Heart of Bucks Community Foundation along with Pippa Kirkbride - the High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire - hosted a festival for the county’s young volunteers. The event, to recognise and celebrate young people who give their time, energy, skills and passion to help their local community, was held at Penn House with the kind permission of Lord and Countess Howe. The event was attended by more than 100 volunteers aged between 16 and 30 from a range of charities across the county.
The beautiful, warm evening began with live music from Wycombe Steel Orchestra, followed by a circus performance from Katy Kartwheel and some good old-fashioned lawn games. Food was provided by local suppliers Bombayish, Oliviero’s Pizza and The Works Ice Cream. There was also a photobooth from The Rare Mare – a company founded by one of Heart of Bucks’ own young volunteers Tiyanna Noel. Additionally, Tiyanna received a bursary for the business from SWEF through the Heart of Bucks Young Futures Fund, making it extra special to have her at the event. The perfect showcase for Young Futures and how it can help young people in Buckinghamshire create lasting change for themselves and others.
The evening concluded with marshmallows toasted on a firepit loaned from Odds Farm and a DJ set which got everyone up and dancing.
Henry Allmand, CEO of Heart of Bucks said:
"Our Young Futures Fund is all is about empowering young people to help make Buckinghamshire a better place for the youth of today and the future. It was fantastic to be able to honour more than 100 volunteers from across our county at this brilliant event.”
The event was kindly hosted by Lord and Countess Howe and Pippa Kirkbride, the current High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire. The evening was sponsored by local businesses Framework Digital and Rebellion Brewery.
A young volunteer said:
“The event was so fun…I loved the entertainment…the food was great…and everyone felt included. I feel really touched that this event was put on to celebrate the efforts of all the young volunteers in Buckinghamshire.”