Hello and thank you for reading today’s Volunteer Centre Manchester blog post. Just to let you know, we will be submitting a lot more posts on a regular basis to keep you up to date with what’s new at Volunteer Centre Manchester, so watch this space!
The ideal café volunteer will be enthusiastic about working in catering and willing to learn about all areas of working in a café (including washing up!). A non-judgmental attitude is essential, and you will be reliable and able to do regular shifts, probably one or two a week minimum. 
We’ve just published our updated data sets for volunteers and groups for January – March 2016, which can be found here: https://www.manchestercommunitycentral.org/policy-and-influence/open-da….
400 volunteers are needed to take part in a unique performance to commemorate the lives of those who served in or were affected by the Battle of the Somme 100 years ago. Are you enthusiastic aged 18 or over, male or female, who’ll relish the opportunity to become involved in a truly oneof-a-kind, historic event? Volunteers will be part of a short movement-based dance piece – though no previous experience is required. 
NCVO has launched the 15th edition of the UK Civil Society Almanac, once again providing a comprehensive overview of facts and figures related to the voluntary sector.
NCVO principally use charities’ accounts to estimate the sector’s finances, as well as survey data to understand rates of volunteering and the sector’s workforce.
Why not take part in Big Dig this year on Saturday 16 April? This is a special day when volunteers are recruited to help you get ready for the new growing season. Volunteer for a day of good work and good food to help local gardens get ready for the growing season. 
If you want to take part your project will be promoted to people across the city and you’ll receive a pack with postcards and seeds to help you recruit people in your local area.
Award-winning Manchester volunteers using their own experience to help others with mental health, substance misuse and offending issues turn their lives around have scooped awards for their efforts.
Simon O’Brien and Catherine Hay have both been recognised at Riverside’s Volunteering Awards for the impact they have made on their communities.
Imperial War Museum North and Manchester Museum are actively seeking to recruit people who want to improve their health and wellbeing, specifically:
• Young people (16-25 years old)
• Ex-service personnel
• Older people (50 years plus)
Applications will be considered from anyone in the Greater Manchester area who feels they may benefit from the programme.
This is an opportunity to network with people and services who work across south Manchester.
Community Explorers are working in partnership with South Manchester CCG to map out community groups, services and buildings that offer support to local people. The idea is to use local assets more effectively to improve health and well-being.
The next meeting is taking place on Monday 21 March 2016, 14:00-16:00 in Fallowfield.
For further information and to take part, contact 0161 765 4528.
The Trustee Treasurer role at Manchester Mind is an opportunity for a finance professional to add value and financial stewardship to a dynamic and successful mental health charity. The support of a strong finance team, committed service director and an engaged Board of Trustees provides the foundation for a term as Treasurer that can have a lasting impact.