Aster wins award for work with local community in Weymouth

Local housing association Aster Group has been presented with an Employer Community Award in recognition of its volunteering activities, including the makeover of Park Community Centre in Weymouth.

The award was given by Exeter College, who were impressed by the team of Aster apprentices who volunteered their time during National Apprenticeship Week 2020 (3-9 February 2020), to paint and decorate the community hall. Park Community Centre, which is used for numerous activities from luncheon clubs, toddler groups and arts and crafts, had long wished for a refreshed new modern look and feel to help build its appeal to people of all ages in the community.

Commenting on the transformative work of the apprentices and the difference it has made to the community, Shirley James, secretary of Park Community Centre, said: “It’s great news that the Aster apprentice volunteers won an award for their work in the community.

“Our (huge) hall must have looked impossible to complete in a week! However, we looked in each day and could see the volunteers not only working hard, but being positive and picking up skills quickly. The hall has been modernised and looks amazing. We have had very positive remarks from all who attend. We are proud of our hall and of the volunteers. A huge thank you.”

Alongside the Employer Community Award, Aster also received the Inspiring Journey Award and the Unsung Hero Award during Exeter College’s first ever Standards and Sparkles ceremony.

The award comes as the country celebrates Volunteers’ Week this week (1-7 June), which recognises the invaluable contribution volunteers make to local communities.

Alec Pegram, maintenance director at Aster, comments: “Volunteers’ Week is a timely reminder of the fantastic difference volunteering can make. Being able to give back to our community is a real privilege so we are delighted to celebrate the amazing efforts of our apprentices, their colleagues and our partners in delivering positive outcomes to our local communities with this award from Exeter College."

To find out more about apprenticeship opportunities at Aster please visit www.aster.co.uk/careers/apprenticeships and for further information on Aster Group visit www.aster.co.uk.