Janine GriffithsA volunteer from Crossgates has been recognised for his dedication to helping vulnerable people after winning a major honour at this year’s Yorkshire Choice Awards.
John Gibbons, who volunteers with Focus4Hope, was named Volunteer of the Year at the sold-out awards ceremony, which celebrates individuals, community groups and organisations making a positive impact across Yorkshire.
Now in their 10th year, the Yorkshire Choice Awards recognise people whose work embodies resilience, kindness and community spirit.
Alongside running his own plumbing business in Leeds, John has spent the past five years volunteering with Focus4Hope. His role sees him collecting donations from across West Yorkshire and helping to recycle abandoned tents and sleeping bags from events such as Leeds Festival so they can be used by people sleeping rough.
He is also a regular presence at the charity’s homeless outreach sessions, helping to distribute essential items to those in need.
Reflecting on the award, John said: “While I’m very grateful to be awarded Volunteer of the Year, my motivation is to make sure our most vulnerable people have a bit of shelter and safety and someone to turn to. The world feels increasingly tough right now and I just want to do my bit to help”.
His contribution was praised by Louise from Focus4Hope, who highlighted the impact he has on both the charity and the people it supports.
She said: “John’s a vital part of our team and we can’t thank him – and all of our volunteers – enough.
“He has a unique ability to connect with people in the darkest moments, listening without judgment.
“No task is too big or too small and if someone’s in crisis he’s there, showing genuine compassion and offering reassurance. For many he’s not just a volunteer – he’s a friend when they have no one else.”
Focus4Hope was originally established as a community organisation before becoming a registered charity as demand increased during the cost of living crisis.
Today, the charity provides a range of services designed to help people before they reach crisis point, including food distribution, advice and guidance, and a low-cost food market.
John’s award shines a spotlight on the role volunteers play in supporting communities across Leeds and helping people through some of life’s most difficult challenges.
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