About Us
AYLESBURY YOUTH ACTION Volunteering for a New GenerationText Box: Aylesbury Youth Action (AYA) provide opportunities for young people, aged 14 - 25, to volunteer in the local community. The activities are fun and challenging, ranging from projects with children and people with disabilities to sports and creative arts and most things in between. At AYA we strongly believe that giving your time and energy to voluntary projects is a great way to learn new skills, gain confidence, meet new friends and build on what you’re into. Aylesbury Youth Action was established in 1971 after several consultations initiated by secondary head teachers with people interested in young people’s volunteering. It is a registered charity, presently funded by the William Harding’s Charity and Aylesbury Vale District Council and supported by Buckinghamshire County Council. Specific projects receive funding from other trusts and grant giving organisations. The aim is to provide young people with the opportunity to participate in volunteering opportunities in their local community through a variety of projects that appeal to a wide range of interests. Projects are of community benefit and are rewarding and satisfying for volunteers. The young people are also encouraged to develop their own ideas. AYA is open to young people, between the ages of 14 - 25, within Aylesbury Vale. The young people are encouraged to put forward their ideas and suggestions about the work of AYA. They are enabled to make decisions and choices that affect their lives and also to explore, understand and challenge any form of oppression that affects minority individuals or groups. This form of participation in the organisation helps to maintain their enthusiasm & involvement. Care is taken to ensure that the volunteers are suitable for the work they wish to do and that they are adequately trained and prepared both before and during their participation in projects. It is recognised that projects such as work with children with special needs require skill and confidence on the part of the volunteer. Training also enables that volunteers to value their experience more effectively. Projects vary between individual placements and group work, some requiring a regular commitment and others only an occasional one-day or one-week involvement. There is also a choice between practical activities and work situations that necessitate the development of individual relationships with people. Social events are important in developing group identity and creating friendships. The contribution made by each young person is recognised through the award of a certificate. Each young person giving more than 10 hours service in a year receives a certificate showing the number of hours that have been achieved. This can be used for their Record of Achievement, CVs or applications for higher education and jobs. Return to top of page

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AYA Volunteer Awards 2011

Registered charity no. 285088