The contributions of local community champions were recognised and celebrated at the Lord Provost Volunteering Certificate Awards Ceremony, held at the Aberdeen Town House.
The special Civic Reception brought together volunteers, local organisations and civic leaders to recognise the extraordinary efforts of both individuals and teams who give back their time and energy across the city.
Hosted by ACVO TSI, the event featured a packed programme of awards, short films and live entertainment. A total of 24 Bon Accord Awards were presented to recognise individual volunteering achievements alongside 27 Team Aberdeen Awards honouring collaborative community volunteers.
Opening speeches delivered by the Lord Provost of Aberdeen, Councillor Dr. David Cameron, and ACVO Volunteering Services Manager, Mike Melvin, set an inspirational tone for an evening focused on gratitude and community spirit.
The ceremony moved through individual and team presentations, interspersed with inspirational short films shining a spotlight on a selection of awardees who attended the ceremony.
In the films, Dave Thompson, volunteer at Denis Law Legacy Trust, shares his personal experience giving time back at the organisation’s Streetsport sessions whilst the Our Union Street ‘Brighten the Streets’ team explain their collaborative efforts to help rejuvenate the city centre.
Finally, the volunteer team at Aberdeen Archives, Gallery & Museums’ Musical Memories group speak about their rewarding experience of supporting those living with dementia through music and singing.
L-R: Lady Provost Hazel Cameron, ACVO Volunteering Services Manager Mike Melvin, Lord Provost of Aberdeen, Councillor Dr. David Cameron, ACVO Chief Executive Maggie Hepburn, ACVO Chair Paul O’Connor MBE
The evening concluded with a vibrant performance by Touch of Love Outreach’s dance group before guests enjoyed a post-ceremony buffet and photo opportunities with the Lord Provost.
The Lord Provost said: "Volunteering makes a remarkable contribution to communities across Aberdeen every day. The Awards Ceremony gave us the opportunity to recognise and celebrate the individuals and teams whose commitment, generosity and community spirit continue to make our city a stronger and more connected place."
Mike Melvin said: "Volunteers represent the absolute best of Aberdeen. The dedication, kindness and support that volunteers provide makes all our lives better. The Awards Ceremony was the perfect opportunity to extend a big thank you to volunteers, show our great appreciation and highlight how important what volunteers do is to all aspects of life in Aberdeen."
For more information about the award scheme, please visit www.lordprovostcertificate.co.uk. Nominations are anticipated to reopen in 2027.