From the Archive

Legacy of 2012: Olympian spirit of volunteers in the park

The Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park volunteers are referred to as Park Champions in recognition of the key role they play in shaping the Park. 

The volunteer programme is delivered by Our Parklife, the Park’s Community Interest Company. Since 2014 it has been helping people to participate in the legacy of the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Park Champions, with their enthusiasm, dedication and knowledge have continued the spirit of the 2012 Games Makers. 

Volunteers have been a vital part of the park’s success, supporting all aspects of the Park’s day to day life. From assisting at major events, welcoming visitors from the Information Point, running the Park’s Mobility Services, to delivering education visits and tours as well as ensuring that the gardens continue to look stunning all year round, Park Champions’ role is vital. 

The London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC), Our Parklife and the Park Champions volunteer team work hard together to ensure that Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park really is a Park for all, where activities are accessible, inclusive and encourage diversity. Being a Park Champion offers local residents, especially young people, Pearl Saunders on behalf of Diversity and Inclusion Champions Voice and Our Parklife, opportunities to gain skills, confidence, wellbeing and earning potential as well as giving something back to the community. There is something for all and everyone is welcome! 

Photos courtesy Our Parklife

Among other activities, Our Parklife and the Park Champions deliver the Park’s Mobility services to the public, making the Park accessible to everyone. The current service consists of free access to an eight-seater ‘golf’ buggy driven by a trained and experienced volunteer. Mobility scooters and manual wheelchairs are also available for hire. 

Our Parklife has many projects of interest to local people, including an Oral History Project to celebrate ten years since the 2012 Games, and some Greenspace Volunteering opportunities. 

More information about Our Parklife, the Park Champions programme and the services delivered can be found at OurParklife.co.uk


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