CHARITIES across Darlington are planning to take part in a national campaign to celebrate the contributions of its volunteers.

EVOLution, which promotes the voluntary and community sector in Darlington, is launching Volunteer's Week 2011, which will run from Wednesday, June 1, to Tuesday, June 7, in the town.

There will be various events across the town, including charity bag packs, a challenge to shake hands with as many people as possible, and litter picks.

Mark Wilkes, local business partnership coordinator at eVOLution, said: "Volunteering is a fantastic outlet that can benefit a person's life significantly. Our aim is to show there are so many options especially locally, and that's typified by events during the week."

Volunteer week is rounded off on Tuesday, June 7, with a promotional stand in Darlington town centre where people can sign up for courses and learn more about services such as the newly launched UK Online service.

Karen Grundy, executive director of eVOLution, said: "There are approximately 500 charities in Darlington of which the majority of them utilise volunteers and it's vital that we raise awareness.

"I encourage anyone who is interested to come along and attend the events; volunteering can be a very enriching process that also looks very good on a person's resume."

To get involved in Volunteer's Week or for information about charities, contact eVOLution on 01325-266888 or visit evolutiondarlington.com