Community Support Manager and Volunteer Coordinator, Jenny Hewson, received a personal award from the High Sheriff of Hertfordshire for the work she does at local homelessness charity Emmaus Hertfordshire.
This year, the 23rd annual High Sheriff Awards, which was held at The Great Barn at Micklefield Hall, celebrated volunteering across the county of Hertfordshire. High Sheriff of Hertfordshire, Will Hobhouse, presented six personal awards to people he observed in his year in office who went the extra mile and volunteered beyond what was called for. Also recognised on the night were local organisations and charities.
Jenny Hewson, one of the six individual award recipients, has been recognised for the work she does in addition to her normal job duties at Emmaus Hertfordshire. Highlights of her work include fundraising for the local Peace Hospice, participating in humanitarian aid trips to distribute donations to migrants in Calais, and organising a rucksack appeal to distribute to rough sleepers during the winter months.
Commenting on the award, Jenny Hewson said: “It was such a beautiful event full of inspiring people and I was honoured to have collected this award. It has been a fantastic year, working with lots of charities and partners, aided by Will Hobhouse the High Sheriff.”
Jenny Hewson joined Emmaus Hertfordshire in March 2013 and is responsible for supporting up to 39 companions (formerly homeless people) whilst they rebuild their lives after experiencing the isolation and loss of dignity as a result of homelessness. She provides 1:1 support for all companions, as well as organising training courses and activities.
Tony Ferrier, Emmaus Hertfordshire CEO, said: “Jenny has continued to go above and beyond what is expected of her at Emmaus and within the wider community. She might be on maternity leave but that hasn’t stopped her from picking up recognition for the work she’s done. The award is very well deserved.”
Emmaus Hertfordshire provides a home and meaningful work for people who have experienced homelessness and social exclusion, offering them an alternative route out of homelessness within a supportive environment. Companions work full time while they are at Emmaus selling and upcycling second-hand furniture and household items at its Tring, St Albans, Harpenden, Barnet, Hertford and Hemel Hempstead shops charity shops. The income generated through Emmaus’ shops goes straight back into the community and enables companions to develop skills, rebuild their self-respect and help others in greater need than themselves.
To learn more about Emmaus Hertfordshire, visit www.emmaus.org.uk/hertfordshire
