High praise for Lauren's volunteering

A young volunteer from Barnsley has been nominated for a High Sheriff award to mark her volunteer work.

Lauren Ogley, 17, of Pontefract Road, Oakwell, is a children's work volunteer at the Exodus Project, a Christian charity, and has been nominated in the young people's volunteering and fundraising category.

Lauren, who is studying child care at Barnsley College, runs three after school children's clubs, a Sunday school and gave up three weeks of her college holidays to run holiday clubs.

She makes friends with the children who are aged between 8-11, talks to them and plays games with them.

Lauren said: "I got involved with the Exodus Project because I went there as a child. I've been with them for three years and I do it because I want to and because I enjoy it.

"We talk about influences on society and try to teach them the right way and to make informed choices.

I enjoy meeting the children and watching them grow up."

Jackie Peel, Exodus project manager, has commended her for her commitment, caring nature and the way she has blossomed in self confidence through attending the project, and now mentors others despite heavy caring responsibilities for her siblings at home.

She added: "Lauren is a prime example of what a good volunteer is. When she was younger, Lauren attended the clubs as a member and on reaching 14 was eager to become a volunteer.

"She has been with us consistently for four years, volunteering her time to help others in the clubs.

"We nominated Lauren because of this and because she is reliable, willing to undertake any task and makes herself available for any other events we may need help for."

The winners will be announced on March 6.