Alfreton care home resident celebrates volunteering recognition and snooker success
A care home resident from Alfreton is celebrating two personal milestones after being recognised for his long-term volunteering commitment and enjoying success at the World Snooker Championship in Sheffield.
Fifty-six year old Jason Wood, who lives at Ash Lea House, part of Salutem Care and Education, has been volunteering one day a week with the British Heart Foundation shop in Alfreton for more than two years. During that time, he has become a valued member of the team, helping to raise money for charity and supporting the day-to-day running of the store.
Jason, who is supported by colleagues from Ash Lea House to attend his volunteering role as he requires one-to-one support in the community, recently received a certificate in recognition of his commitment. Katrina Andrews supported Jason on the day he was presented with the award.
Alongside his volunteering, Jason is also pursuing his passion for snooker. He regularly practises at Ash Lea House using the home’s pool table and is a keen fan of Ronnie O'Sullivan.
On 18 April, Jason attended the World Snooker Championship in Sheffield, where he enjoyed the atmosphere of the tournament and also took part in activities during the event. Jason proudly won two medals during the day.
Although he did not meet Ronnie O’Sullivan during this visit, Jason had previously met the snooker star and written him a letter. Jason was supported to book and attend the championship by staff members Nicolas Djuricic and Babalola Osaji.
Jason has also recently joined his local leisure centre and gym as part of his ongoing wellbeing journey and personal goals.
Ash Lea House is a 24-hour residential home designed to support adults with learning disabilities, physical disabilities, and complex needs.
Natalia Guitu-Josu, manager at Ash Lea House, said: “We are incredibly proud of everything Jason has achieved. His commitment to volunteering over such a long period shows real dedication and kindness, and it has been wonderful to see how much confidence and enjoyment he gains from being part of the community.
“Attending the World Snooker Championship was another fantastic experience for Jason and something he had been really looking forward to. Supporting people to pursue their interests, ambitions and personal goals is a very important part of what we do.”
John Godden, chief executive of Salutem Care and Education, added: “Jason’s achievements reflect the importance of providing the right support to help people lead fulfilling and independent lives.
“Whether through volunteering, sport, health and wellbeing activities or building confidence in the community, it is important that people are encouraged to pursue opportunities that matter to them personally. We are delighted to see Jason doing so well and would like to congratulate both him and the team supporting him at Ash Lea House.”
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