Thousands Discover the Difference They Can Make at Volunteer Extravaganza 2026

04th Jun 2026

Over a thousand people came together in Norwich to explore volunteering opportunities and discover how they can make a positive difference in their communities at this year’s Volunteer Extravaganza on Thursday 4^th June.

More than 70 organisations from across Norfolk took part in the event, showcasing a huge range of opportunities for people of all ages, backgrounds and interests. Visitors were able to meet charities, community groups and public sector organisations, finding out how they could support causes they care about and develop new skills through volunteering.

From helping animals and protecting the environment to supporting older people, young people and families, the event highlighted the breadth of volunteering opportunities available across the county. Organisations supporting Norfolk’s emergency services were also on hand to explain how volunteers play a vital role in keeping communities safe and resilient.

Volunteer Extravaganza 2026 enters its 3rd year!

The Volunteer Extravaganza, which this year was sponsored by Aviva, is now firmly established as one of the county’s flagship volunteering events and forms part of Voluntary Norfolk’s Festival of Volunteering, a county-wide programme of events celebrating the contribution of volunteers and encouraging more people to get involved.

Nicky Stainton, Head of VCSE Sector Support at Voluntary Norfolk, said:

“The Volunteer Extravaganza was a fantastic success. It was wonderful to see thousands of people speaking to organisations and discovering the many different ways they can make a difference in Norfolk.

“Volunteers are at the heart of so many services and community activities. Whether it’s supporting animals, helping people facing challenges, assisting emergency services or strengthening local communities, volunteers make an incredible contribution every day.

“We know many organisations are actively looking for more volunteers, and events like this are a great way to connect people with opportunities that match their interests, skills and availability.

“We also know that volunteering is changing and people cannot commit to help the same way as they did in the past. This extravaganza was an opportunity to showcase the vast array of options to suit everyone “

Special thank you to Aviva who sponsored the event and to Castle Quarter and Osiris IT who supported this year’s event.

Festival of Volunteering

The Festival of Volunteering continues throughout June with a Volunteer Open Morning in Cromer on 15 June and a Volunteer Fair in Great Yarmouth on 18 June. Both events will give residents the chance to meet local organisations, learn about volunteering opportunities in their area and find out how they can make a difference in their communities.

Anyone interested in volunteering can find hundreds of opportunities across Norfolk through Get InVOLved, Voluntary Norfolk’s volunteering platform, and learn more about upcoming Festival of Volunteering events.