At Paycare, we know that some of the biggest impacts are made by people who rarely seek recognition.
Across Shropshire, thousands of volunteers give their time, energy and compassion to support others. Whether they’re helping at community events, coaching local sports teams, supporting charities, caring for vulnerable people, or simply lending a hand where it’s needed most, these individuals are the people behind countless smiles.
That’s why, as part of our From One Smile to a Million campaign and our role as Health & Wellbeing Partner of Shropshire Festivals 2026, we’re launching a county-wide search to celebrate the volunteers who make a difference every day.
Do You Know a Volunteer Who Deserves Recognition?
We’re inviting people across Shropshire to nominate a volunteer whose kindness, dedication and commitment deserve to be recognised.
Volunteers come in many forms, and we want to hear about them all. From community groups and local charities to sports clubs, schools, care organisations and grassroots initiatives, we’re looking for stories that showcase the incredible people who strengthen our communities.
If you know someone who goes above and beyond, we’d love to hear about them.
How to Nominate
Simply email marketing@paycare.org with:
- The name of the volunteer you’re nominating
- Details about what they do
- Why you believe they deserve recognition
Every nomination helps us tell a story that might otherwise go untold.
Our CEO, Ant Burns, said:
“Shropshire is full of people who quietly make a difference – the ones who show up, help out, and bring joy to others without expecting anything in return.
We want to celebrate those people. Every nomination helps us share a story that might otherwise go untold, and we’re really excited about shining a light on as many volunteers as possible.”
As a thank you, every nominated volunteer will receive a special memento recognising their contribution to the community.
In addition, all nominees will be entered into a prize draw, with one volunteer winning a wellbeing-themed prize package. Throughout the campaign, we’ll also be sharing many of the inspiring stories we receive across our social media channels and other platforms.
The campaign will run throughout the Shropshire Festivals season, beginning with Petal Fields on 3rd August and continuing through events including Oktoberfest.
Along the way, we’ll be meeting volunteers, hearing their stories, and highlighting the positive impact they have on communities across the county. The campaign will culminate at the end of the festival season, when prize draw winners will be announced and volunteers formally recognised for the difference they make.
Ant added:
“Volunteers and community have always been at the heart of what Paycare does, and this campaign is a natural extension of that commitment. We’re incredibly proud to stand alongside Shropshire Festivals in shining a light on the thousands of volunteers who give their time, across so many walks of life, to make Shropshire a better place for everyone.”
Volunteers are often the heartbeat of our communities. Their generosity creates opportunities, strengthens connections and supports the wellbeing of countless people across Shropshire.
Through From One Smile to a Million, we’re celebrating those everyday heroes and making sure their contributions don’t go unnoticed.
Know someone who deserves a thank you?
Nominate them today by emailing marketing@paycare.org and help us shine a light on the volunteers creating smiles across Shropshire. 🧡