The Auckland Project is celebrating after Michele Armstrong, Head of Volunteering, was named Heritage Volunteering Group’s Volunteer Leader of the Year 2025, recognising her outstanding contribution to volunteering across the heritage sector in the North East and beyond.
With more than 30 years’ experience in the voluntary sector — including 10 years at The Auckland Project and 20 years as a trustee and volunteer with County Durham Community Foundation (now Point North) — Michele has been praised for driving long-term change, transforming organisational approaches, and empowering volunteers to thrive.
Under her leadership, The Auckland Project, which has around 300 active volunteers, launched the Young Buddy Programme, expanding opportunities for young people and adults with additional needs, and supporting their transition into employment. Developed and piloted by Michele, the programme created accessible pathways into volunteering for 16–17-year-olds moving on from school or college, introduced a safeguarding and DBS-supported training framework enabling trained volunteers to ‘buddy’ younger or more vulnerable individuals, and broadened access for those up to age 24 who would otherwise face significant barriers to participation.
Michele is also a passionate advocate of Employer Supported Volunteering, welcoming companies from across the North East to contribute to meaningful conservation and community projects across The Auckland Project’s gardens and parkland.
In addition to her responsibilities at The Auckland Project, Michele leads the North East Heritage Volunteering Group regional network, strengthening collaboration and best practice across the sector, and is Chair of Jack Drum Arts, a community arts organisation helping to enrich cultural opportunities across County Durham.
Responding to the award, presented by Amanda Hanton, Volunteering and Participation Team Manager at Leicestershire County Council and supported by Team Kinetic, Michele said: “I am genuinely beyond humbled to receive the Volunteer Leader of the Year Award. To be recognised by our sector and through a membership vote means a great deal. This award is for everyone at The Auckland Project who believes in the power of volunteering. We still have a long journey ahead to harness this gift of time and transform communities — but I know we can do it.”
She added: “I’m privileged every day to work with people whose passion and generosity are making a real difference in Bishop Auckland. Volunteering is changing, and advancing the profession is vital — we are professionals in what we do, and sharing knowledge is something incredibly special.”
Jane Ruffer, Chief Executive of The Auckland Project, said: “Michele’s leadership has shaped a volunteering culture rooted in purpose, compassion, and opportunity. This national recognition is richly deserved and reflects the profound impact she has had on individuals, our organisation, and the wider sector.”
The Heritage Volunteering Group is a national professional network for those who manage volunteers across the UK heritage sector, offering resources, training, advocacy and sector-wide collaboration to transform volunteering practice and support resilient communities.
The Auckland Project, based in Bishop Auckland, County Durham, is a unique regeneration charity dedicated to building a brighter future for the picturesque market town through art, history, and culture.
Visitors can explore Auckland Palace, the Spanish Gallery, the Mining Art Gallery and the Faith Museum, along with its extensive gardens and deer park.
