Each year on 5 December, the United Nations marks International Volunteer Day to recognise the individuals who dedicate their time, skills, and energy to strengthen communities, promote inclusion, and create positive change. The day highlights the impact of volunteerism, encourages more people to get involved, and inspires organisations to support meaningful community engagement.
At O’Donnell Solicitors, based in Oldham and Saddleworth, we are proud to support and celebrate the volunteers who contribute so much to life across Greater Manchester and the wider North West. As a firm committed to corporate social responsibility and community engagement, we are delighted to highlight the work of three of our colleagues: Sherree Fearon, Senior Legal Cashier; Richard Dobson-Mason, Director and Head of Dispute Resolution and Litigation; and Kenneth Lees, Head of our Medical Negligence and Employment Departments.
Local Community Leadership Through Sport: Sherree Fearon
For more than five years, Sherree Fearon has volunteered as Club Chairperson and Qualified Football Coach at Sublime Athletic FC, an organisation that plays an important role in community life across Greater Manchester.
Sherree is responsible for developing and managing the club, overseeing key administration, and coaching children and adults. She also works closely with a team of volunteers who devote considerable time to planning weekly training sessions and matches, ensuring that every player receives a safe, structured and enjoyable footballing experience.
Sherree values the chance to meet new people and takes great satisfaction in supporting children and adults develop in an inclusive, friendly environment. She is particularly proud of the club’s rapidly growing ladies’ section, where many women originally joined simply to make friends and now flourish as confident team players.
Supporting Youth Development and Emerging Legal Talent: Richard Dobson-Mason
For the past three years, Richard has volunteered as Manager and Coach of the Under 8s team at Ryburn United FC, beginning his role when the group were Under 5s. His work includes planning and leading weekly coaching sessions, guiding players throughout weekly matches, and organising charity and fundraising initiatives to support the club. What he enjoys most is engaging with the young players and watching them develop skills, confidence and a genuine love for the game whilst having fun.
Richard also volunteers as a Judge at the National Speed Mooting Competition, a role he has held for two years. The event sees law students role-play as lawyers, arguing a fictional legal case in front of a judge in a simulated courtroom. Richard attends national competitions, judges fast-paced moots, and mentors competitors to help them grow as advocates. He finds this work particularly fulfilling as it allows him to support aspiring lawyers across Manchester and the North West, helping them refine critical skills and progress towards their professional goals, whilst giving back to the field of law.
Strengthening Local Education: Kenneth Lees
Outside of his work at O’Donnell Solicitors, Kenneth supports local education as the Chair of Governors at Coppice and Roundthorn Primary Academies in Oldham. This position enables Kenneth to collaborate closely with academy leaders and staff, providing strategic oversight across several key areas including HR, finance, teaching quality and curriculum development.
Kenneth finds this role deeply rewarding, particularly because it allows him to contribute directly to the educational experience of children in the area where he himself grew up. He is passionate about ensuring that every child is given the best possible opportunity to achieve their full potential. By working with the academies’ leadership teams and supporting continuous improvement, Kenneth helps maintain high standards that positively influence pupils, families and the wider Oldham community.
Why Volunteer Work Matters to O’Donnell Solicitors
At O’Donnell Solicitors, we believe that thriving communities rely on individuals willing to give their time, expertise and care. Sherree, Richard, and Kenneth show how volunteering can transform lives and strengthen the community. From coaching young athletes and mentoring aspiring lawyers to supporting local schools, their dedication creates opportunities, inspires growth, and fosters inclusion across Greater Manchester. On International Volunteer Day, we celebrate the lasting positive impact of their work.
