GVS Celebrates a Year of Achievement at CEO Rachel Connor’s Final AGM
Glamorgan Voluntary Services (GVS) held a highly successful Annual General Meeting on Friday, 7th November 2025, at the CF61 Centre, Llantwit Major, marking a significant occasion - the final AGM for Rachel Connor, GVS’ Chief Executive Officer, after over two decades of exceptional service and leadership. Rachel will be retiring in March 2026.
The meeting was led by GVS Chair, Lynda Wallis, who reflected on Rachel’s outstanding contribution to the organisation and to the wider Third Sector in the Vale of Glamorgan. Lynda also spoke about the inception of Vale Centre for Voluntary Services (VCVS) in 1997, acknowledging Rachel’s instrumental role in its creation and the journey that led to today’s thriving GVS.
In Rachel’s address, she shared highlights from a strong and productive year, noting that in 2024–25 GVS supported over 817 member organisations, facilitated £331,000 in local grant funding, and placed more than 700 volunteers in meaningful community roles. Both Rachel and Lynda paid tribute to the late Graham Benfield, former Chair, recognising his lasting impact on GVS and the Voluntary Sector in Wales.
Jane Hutt MS presented long service awards to dedicated staff and trustees, including Steve Cox (28 years), Conway Hawkins (26 years), Rachel Connor (28 years) and Janine Richardson (25 years). Volunteers from the CF61 Gardening Project were also celebrated for achieving a Level 5 “Outstanding” Award in the Wales in Bloom 2025 competition.
The AGM concluded with a light buffet lunch, as attendees recognised Rachel’s lasting legacy.
Discover more about our work and achievements in GVS’ Impact Report 2024–2025, which showcases the projects, partnerships, and community initiatives that continue to make a positive difference across the Vale of Glamorgan.
