A 10-year-old boy from Derby received a heartwarming surprise when he was named Young Volunteer of the Year at a ceremony celebrating the city's community heroes. Corey Dobson, from Spondon, was astonished when his name was announced at the Derby Voluntary Service Awards, organized by Community Action Derby in partnership with Derby Homes and supported by the Cosy Foundation. The young volunteer was recognized for his outstanding efforts in raising more than £2,000 for the Derbyshire Children's Holiday Centre.
Corey's fundraising journey began after he had been a guest at the centre several times. When he learned that the centre could not open the previous year due to a lack of funds, he was devastated and decided to take action. He completed a 100-mile sponsored walk over a month and organized cake sales at his school, Springfield Primary. His dedication impressed the charity so much that he was appointed as its junior ambassador.
A Well-Deserved Recognition
Janine Holmes, chief executive of the Derbyshire Children's Holiday Centre, nominated Corey for the award and expressed her delight at his win. "Corey was brilliant in raising so much money for us so we could help other children have a holiday just as he did. We are so grateful to all our fundraisers, and for him to have raised so much at such a young age shows commitment and spirit. It’s the kind of thing that lets us know our work is hugely worthwhile. I’m delighted he has won this Young Volunteer award," she said.
Corey is now eager to continue his support by taking on his next challenge: a million steps! Thanks to the fundraising efforts of Corey, Derby Telegraph readers, supporters in Skegness, and many others, the Derbyshire Children's Holiday Centre has reopened this year and welcomed its first group of children to the seaside in May.
Corey's Joy and Ambition
Corey shared his happiness about the centre's reopening, saying, "I’m very glad that I was there because they have changed my life. It’s just really nice. I’m very glad that they were able to re-open." His mother, Angie, expressed her pride: "It was lovely. I’m really proud of Corey."
Amanda Ellse from the Cosy Foundation, who presented the award, added, "Well done, Corey! I was absolutely delighted to be able to present this well-deserved award."
About the Derbyshire Children's Holiday Centre
The centre provides five-day stays in Skegness for primary-aged children who might not otherwise get a break. Children are nominated through their school and often face challenges such as financial difficulties, bereavement, or caring for relatives. Janine Holmes emphasized the importance of volunteering: "It’s brilliant that Corey has shown at a young age how important volunteering can be. We are now up and running again, and volunteering is essential for us moving forward. If anyone is inspired by Corey’s example and would like to support us, please do get in touch via the website."
