Without the selfless deeds of volunteers, our country would be a very different place.
It's so difficult to say exactly how much volunteers contribute to Scottish society. They do so much to support so many different areas of public life that estimating their impact is tricky.
But we know they are indispensable. It's no exaggeration to say that many services in our local areas would not be able to function without the dedication, hard work and kindness of volunteers.
The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) conducted research a few years ago to try and estimate just how much volunteers contribute to Scotland's economy.
They found that more than two million people - almost half of the adult population - volunteered formally and informally.
The estimated benefit to our nation's economy was £5.5 billion.
£5.5 billion - that sum is hard to even get your head around.
It's bigger than the annual education budget in Scotland that funds higher education, further education, skills training, childcare policy and every primary, secondary and special school in the country.
It's nearly the same amount as the total value of whisky exported around the globe.
It's the equivalent of building about four Queensferry Crossings.
It's an astronomical sum that shows just how essential volunteers are to our everyday lives. They are the backbone of our communities.
These unsung heroes support services that make a genuine difference to people’s lives. I have seen this first-hand throughout my time as an MSP, where I have met with countless volunteers and charities doing amazing work in so many different areas.
I am fully aware of the impact that volunteers’ efforts can have on their communities, which is why I also try and volunteer myself wherever I can.
So this year, to try and recognise at least some of the amazing efforts that volunteers go to, I am holding Volunteer of the Year Awards for both West Dunbartonshire and East Dunbartonshire to celebrate the fantastic volunteers who make our communities a better place.
If you know someone who deserves to be recognised, please nominate them here: https://www.pamgosal.org.uk/volunteer-awards
Nominations close on Monday 22nd May and the winners will be announced during Volunteer’s Week, 1st – 7th June.
It's so important that we value, recognise, and celebrate the volunteers who give up their own time to help others. So please get involved and let's give them the praise they deserve.
