Could you spare a few hours to help your local community?
People across Market Drayton are being invited to discover just how rewarding volunteering can be at the town’s very first Volunteers Fair, taking place on Friday 11 September from 10am to 2pm at Festival Drayton Centre.
Organised by Make it Market Drayton, the free event has been created in response to growing demand from local charities, community groups and voluntary organisations, many of whom say that finding new volunteers has become one of their biggest challenges.
The fair will bring together a wide range of organisations under one roof, giving visitors the chance to chat with volunteers, find out what different groups do, and discover opportunities that match their interests, skills and the time they have available.
Whether you can spare an hour a month, a few hours a week or would simply like to find out more, there will be a variety of opportunities to suit all ages and backgrounds.
Among those taking part are organisations including Market Drayton Museum, Festival Drayton Centre, Mencap, local charity shops, and a range of community organisations, charities and voluntary groups that all play an important role in making Market Drayton a great place to live. From heritage and arts to youth groups, community events, health charities, environmental projects and sports clubs, there are opportunities to suit a wide variety of interests.
Volunteering isn’t just about giving something back. It can also bring significant personal benefits, including:
- Meeting new people and making friends.
- Learning new skills and gaining valuable experience.
- Building confidence and improving wellbeing.
- Supporting causes you care about.
- Becoming more connected with your local community.
- Enhancing your CV or developing skills for future employment.
- Enjoying new experiences while making a real difference.
Helen McCabe from Make it Market Drayton said:
“Market Drayton is incredibly fortunate to have so many volunteers who dedicate their time to supporting local charities, community groups, events and organisations. They are the people who help keep our community thriving.
“Over the past year we’ve spoken to dozens of organisations who all tell us the same thing – they need more volunteers. We wanted to create an event that makes it easy for people to discover the many opportunities available and find something that’s right for them.
“You don’t need specialist skills or lots of spare time. Whether you can help once a month, every week or just occasionally at events, there is a role where your time and talents can make a real difference.”
Free Stalls Available for Local Organisations
Local charities, clubs, community groups and voluntary organisations that are looking to recruit volunteers are invited to take part in the fair.
Stalls are completely free, giving organisations the opportunity to meet local people, explain what they do and encourage more volunteers to get involved.
Groups wishing to exhibit can book their free stall online at:
Alternatively, organisations can get in touch with Helen at Make it Market Drayton for more information.
The Volunteers Fair is free to attend, and visitors are welcome to drop in at any time between 10am and 2pm.
If you’ve ever thought about volunteering, or if your organisation is looking for new volunteers, this is an excellent opportunity to make new connections and strengthen the fantastic voluntary sector that helps make Market Drayton such a vibrant and welcoming community.
Volunteers Fair
Friday 11 September 2026
10am – 2pm
Festival Drayton Centre, Market Drayton
Free admission • Everyone welcome • Free stalls available for organisations recruiting volunteers
