This year, we were back with a bang at the 2019 Making a Difference Awards. The awards showcase the amazing work that goes on in our communities by volunteers who give their time so generously and expect nothing in return.

Now in its 9th year, the annual Making a Difference Awards were held at the beautiful 14th-century manor home in Chepstow, St. Pierre Marriott Hotel & Country Club.

Many of the stories that were shared at the awards were truly inspirational and showcased real determination and dedication, with some stories even bringing a tear to many guests’ eyes.

Nominated by Dads Can Cymru Development Worker Lee Davies, Jason Marshall won Inspirational Young Person. At 22 years old, he is a fantastic dad with a real drive to do the best by his family. After moving to Monmouthshire, he was left feeling isolated and in need of support. Following this, Jason began volunteering in his local shop which helped to improve his confidence.

Jason has also volunteered on a number of occasions with Dads Can Cymru. He has helped with the landscaping of a children’s play area in a school and has assisted with the building of a mud kitchen for a local school in his community.

Jason has now gone from volunteering to entering employment into the retail sector. He was delighted to pick up the award, adding, “I am pleased to win this award and I could not have done it without the support of Lee and Dads Can Cymru”.

The remaining winners are:
Neighbour From Heaven – Jenny King
Community Champion Claire – Wheeler
Outstanding Achievement in Self-development – Theresa Thomas
Most inspirational Journey – Ray Francis
Best Group, Project or Initiative – Growing Space
Outstanding Contribution to MHA – Friends of MHA
Volunteer of the Year – Michael Elliott

Sylvia Meredith was one of the many tenants that left the awards feeling inspired, “I feel very happy, full of self-pride and confidence after the awards. All the staff and contestants were inspiring and thought provoking”.

MHA Director of Housing and Communities, Michelle Morgan, who hosted the evening, added, “It was a privilege to host such a wonderful event. The Making a Difference Awards are the perfect way to reward our tenants for helping make our communities a place where people aspire to live and work”.

“We are already looking forward to celebrating our 10 year anniversary of the Making a Difference awards next year!”