Inverness Courier staff member Darrel Paterson awarded Volunteer of the Year for his Mikeysline efforts
A member of The Inverness Courier’s staff has won Volunteer of the Year at the Highland Third Sector Awards.
Darrel Paterson was singled out for his fundraising on behalf of Mikeysline mental health charity since 2021 – a time when he not only raised £17,000 but “boosted awareness” of the service.
The awards seek to shine a spotlight on the exceptional contributions and transformative work achieved by individuals, organisations, and initiatives in Highland communities within the Third Sector.
The citation highlighted how his “positive attitude, creativity, and kindness have left a lasting impact not just on Mikeysline but on the wider community as well”.
It added: “His dedication and modesty make him a valued member of our team, and we are incredibly grateful for his ongoing support.”
The impact of his efforts have been “crucial in maintaining our mental health support services across the Highlands, Islands, and Moray”.
Darrel said: “Truly honoured to be awarded and recognised for this award. This award is for all the volunteers and staff at Mikeysline you are all amazing and making a huge difference to people!
“Being a part of Mikeysline is a true honour and we are here for anyone that requires someone to talk to - remember it is ok not to be ok!”
He was not alone however and there were many well-warned prize winners, including the Golspie Youth Action Project which won the Community Initiative of the Year award.
The project relaunched the Golspie Youth Club attracting over 80 children each week to a “safe and welcoming environment” in addition to regular activities.
It also organised trips and introduced an awards evening that encourages youth to engage in community volunteering, helping them earn qualifications and recognition.
A little further north Wendy Thain, Project Manager - Caithness KLICS was recognised with Outstanding Achievement Award.
She founded Caithness KLICS (Kids Living in Caring Situations) in 2013 to support young carers aged 5 to 18, who look after family members with disabilities, addictions, or mental health issues.
Today, KLICS supports over 100 young carers, offering a safe space for them to unwind and connect with peers.
Caithness KLICS won again for Reducing Vulnerability Through Third Sector Activity for providing after-school sessions where young carers can relax, take a break from their responsibilities, and just be kids.
It also works during school holidays and offers workshops, local activities, and trips, including taking young carers to the Young Carers Festival in Fife.
Staying in Caithness, the Wick Development Trust got the Social Enterprise of the Year after it was set-up to help with urban regeneration and economic growth by improving the town as a place to stay and visit.
The trust sought to improve community and visitor facilities, town centre regeneration, improving employment opportunities within the area, which ultimately will help people living in areas of deprivation in the town.
Youth Volunteer of the Year was presented to Jason Findlay, a Highlife Highland Youth Mentor for Youth Club and Monday Night Football.
The 16-year-old demonstrated exceptional dedication to his community and his citation said “his commitment to volunteering is truly deserving of recognition.”
His involvement with Monday Night Football in Fort William, where he was mentored by a Social Worker and Youth Development Officer, ignited his passion for helping others.
Highland-based Reach4Reality won the Third Sector Organisation of the Year award for providing life-changing outdoor activity breaks for young people and young adults aged 9-25 with social communication difficulties, many of whom are autistic.
Established in 2013, Reach4Reality, R4R offers half-day, day, weekend, and extended breaks, giving participants the chance to try activities like cycling, kayaking, and archery in a supportive environment tailored to their needs.
Finally, the Highland Third Sector Interface (HTSI) Team Member of the Year award went to Siobhan MacKenzie. She was described as “an indispensable member of our team, responsible for all things finance-related.”
It continued: “HTSI would not function as smoothly without Siobhan, and we are incredibly grateful for her contributions. She truly embodies the spirit of this award.”
