Voluntary Action LeicesterShire (VAL) kicked off its 60th anniversary with a heartfelt celebration at Leicester Racecourse, welcoming over 130 guests to honour six decades of transforming lives, empowering communities and championing the voluntary sector across Leicester and Leicestershire.
The evening served as a thank you to the many individuals, partners, volunteers and supporters who have been part of VAL’s journey. Guests gathered to reflect on the organisation’s proud history, connect with one another, and celebrate the impact VAL continues to make across the city and county.
The event opened with a welcome from Linda Jones, Chair of VAL, who thanked attendees for their continued support and reflected on VAL’s enduring mission and values.
Guests also heard from Mike Kapur OBE CStJ, HM Lord Lieutenant of Leicestershire, who paid tribute to VAL’s pivotal role in supporting individuals and communities across the county. Eileen Perry (Richards) MBE DL, speaking on behalf of Dr Nik Kotecha OBE DL, shared words of appreciation for his ongoing support of VAL, which was warmly acknowledged during the evening.
One of the most moving moments of the night came from Rehana Sidat – Founder/CEO at Jamila’s Legacy – who shared her personal journey and the support she received from VAL. In her speech, she highlighted that without VAL, so many people across the community would not get the help they needed or deserved. Her words powerfully illustrating the real, human impact behind the organisation’s work and served as a poignant reminder of why VAL’s mission has never been so important.
Kevin Allen-Khimani, CEO of VAL, commented:
“This anniversary is not just about looking back at what we’ve achieved over the past 60 years, but about recognising the people and communities who have made that impact possible.”
“Every life changed tells a story of resilience, support and hope. As we look ahead, VAL remains deeply committed to working alongside our partners, volunteers and communities to ensure even more people across Leicestershire have the opportunity to thrive.”
Guests enjoyed a three-course meal and an evening of connection, conversation and celebration. A timeline of VAL’s history showcased six decades of achievements, challenges overcome and lives changed.
The celebration marks the start of a year-long programme of events to commemorate VAL’s 60th anniversary – a milestone that reflects not just six decades of service, but a future filled with renewed purpose, collaboration and hope supporting individuals and communities across Leicestershire.
Top Photo: Hardip Chohan, Linda Jones, Chair of VAL (Centre) and Trace Voss of VAL, with Mike Kapur OBE, C StJ, HM Lord Lieutenant of Leicestershire
About Voluntary Action LeicesterShire (VAL)
Voluntary Action LeicesterShire (VAL) has been helping to change lives for the better in Leicester and Leicestershire for over half a century. Originally founded in 1965 as the Leicester Council for Social Services, VAL is now a charity with an income of over £2 million, delivering multiple projects and contracts that drive social good in local communities.
VAL provides advice, support and training to charities and community groups across Leicestershire. With around 2,400 registered charities and an estimated 3,800 grassroots community organisations across the city and county, we help charities to reach their potential and continue delivering vital services within local communities.
