A Blackpool teenager will represent the North West at a get together of volunteers in London later this month.
Millennium Volunteer Jordan Walker, 17, will attend the big bash at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, to celebrate 2005 as the Year of the Volunteer.
He'll join around 450 guests, including 49 other volunteers from across the UK, and celebrities such as double Olympic gold winning athlete Dame Kelly Holmes and record producer Pete Waterman. Broadcaster Jon Snow will compere the event.
Jordan was invited to the January 22 event, organised by Community Service Volunteers (CSV) in recognition of his voluntary work with disabled youngsters.
Despite having some physical disabilities himself, after being hit by a car when he was 13, Jordan has worked with Blackpool Bears, helping disabled people enjoy sports, and the STARS Project, working with disabled youngsters on school holidays.
He also organises fund-raising events, such as a walk, from North Pier to South Pier and back, raising money for Blackpool charity, Donna's Dream House, and he also mentors youngsters for the Millennium Volunteers Youth Theatre.
His invitation to London came after he scooped a regional CSV award for 'inspiring others and overcoming personal obstacles'. He was presented with one of 2005 medals, struck specially by the Royal Mint to mark the Year of the Volunteer.
Cllr Ivan Taylor, Blackpool Council's cabinet member for children and young people, said: "Jordan's story is one of courage and determination and a clear joy in helping others. He, and the other volunteers, are each worthy of great praise for giving their time to help others and enhancing their own prospects.
"Jordan is a fantastic role model for other young people in the community and I would urge others who are interested in volunteering to contact Millennium Volunteers to find out more about the opportunities available."
l Anyone aged 16 to 24 can get involved with Millennium Volunteers in Blackpool. Email millennium.vol@blackpool.gov.uk or call 01253 476656 for more details
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