THIS month is one of double celebrations for a York-based charity which enables workers to take up voluntary roles across the city.

Just to show it does not do things by halves, York Cares is celebrating its first anniversary - and has appointed a key professional figure to take on the role of chairman of the organisation.

Stephen Mann, who is presently executive director at Norwich Union, is taking over the role from Mike Kirsch.

To mark the occasion, Stephen, who is responsible for projects and UK-wide innovation activity for Norwich Union, is hosting a meeting for York Cares stakeholders, to bring key local employers together to celebrate the success of the first year.

Seán Mahon, chief executive of Cattles plc, and chairman of the National Cares initiative, will be joining them to share his expertise and provide a national context.

Stephen said: "York Cares is a great vehicle for businesses and their employees to contribute something tangible to their community.

"I am looking forward to increasing the size and scale of York Cares, so that we get more volunteers, and more businesses recognise the benefits to them and their staff of a socially-responsible approach to their community."

York Cares has launched a new programme of activities for 2007 on the back of the success of its activities in 2006, when 800 volunteers supported more than 60 community projects across the city.

Activities included December's Sherry Party week, in which 150 York employees visited elderly residential homes to celebrate the festive period, and the expansion of the popular primary school Right to Read scheme.

Initiatives in 2007 will include Life Swap In Schools week next month, Life Swap In The Parks in March with an outdoors and conservation theme, and June's community speed dating volunteer recruitment event.

Gayle Johnson, of York Cares, said: "We have had a terrific first year, and are delighted to have Stephen on board to drive employee volunteering activities in 2007. Stephen has already shown huge commitment to the campaign, and we are looking forward to promoting the planned initiatives with his support."

York Cares is an independent charity, bringing businesses, employees and community organisations together to support the city through volunteering.

For more information on how to get involved, phone Gayle Johnson on 01904 433482, or email gayle@yorkcares.co.uk