Viv Davis, a cherished volunteer with Voluntary Action Epping Forest’s (VAEF) ACE Activities project, has been honoured with the prestigious Service Above Self award by the Rotary Club of Epping.
The award recognises individuals who demonstrate exemplary humanitarian service and Viv’s impact speaks volumes. She has made a profound difference to the lives of others in her 13 years of volunteering with VAEF and Ongar Youth.
Viv volunteers weekly with ACE Activities, a programme supporting adults with learning disabilities and autism. Before this, she gave her time generously to Ongar Youth, a social club for people with learning disabilities, where she was a friendly and familiar face at the ever-popular tuck shop.
Though her formal roles are volunteer minibus assistant and gardener, Viv’s contributions go far beyond any job description.
Fondly nicknamed ‘High Viz Viv’ for her ever-present fluorescent jacket, ‘David Bailey’ for capturing countless special memories through her photography, and ‘Social Secretary’ for remembering and celebrating every birthday, Viv brings not only reliability but warmth and joy to the entire ACE community.
“We would be truly lost without Viv,” said Sally Panrucker, manager of Ace Activities. “She is the heartbeat of the project. Her dedication and compassion reflect everything the Service Above Self Award stands for, and more.”
VAEF is proud to have nominated Vivien Davis for this honour and is even prouder to celebrate her recognition as the recipient of the Service Above Self Award 2025.
Service Above Self is the primary motto of Rotary International, a global network of volunteers dedicated to humanitarian service.
It emphasises prioritising the needs of others and making a positive impact on communities, both locally and globally, above personal interest. This guiding principle reflects the core values of Rotary and serves as a benchmark for all its service activities.
Voluntary Action Epping Forest (VAEF) has been at the heart of the Epping Forest community for over 30 years, delivering essential services that improve lives and support local organisations.
Over the past five years, VAEF has secured more than £2 million from funders outside of the District, enabling us to provide a wide range of services that directly benefit Epping Forest residents.
VAEF’s services cater to a broad spectrum of needs, including the elderly, those with learning disabilities, isolated individuals and residents navigating complex systems like benefits or post-hospital support.
Lisa Sharpe is from Voluntary Action Epping Forest (VAEF).
- For more information: vaef.org.uk
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