Our core work
Many of our speakers throughout the year reflect our core work (or Programme Action as it is known in the organisation) undertaken by members. Some of these are outlined below
26th May 2009 – Kids in Kaliahun
This evening we had an inspirational speaker who was instrumental in setting up ‘Kids in Kailahun’ , a sponsorship programme for children who have be
en orphaned through was or disease throughout the Kailahun District of Sierra Leone. KIK is committed to providing Education, Health Care, Nutrition and Shelter in order to help develop the children into young people who will play their part in the rebuilding of their country’s shattered society.
This is one of Madam President’s selected Charities and we have agreed to fill a suitcase with medical equipment to act as a mobile clinic for the workers.
23rd June 2009 - Miles of Smiles
Tonight’s speaker was Karen Rainford of ’Miles of Smiles’. This Lancashire Charity’s aim is to make youngsters feel special, to put some sparkle and love and a few giggles in their day. Karen worked for 7 years for the ‘Make a Wish’ Charity – she spoke to us of this charity last year- and she wanted a new challenge. Some children face a daily struggle – perhaps having to care for a parent or who may have a sibling who takes up most of mum and dad’s attention. The Charity organises individual treats for these children – bringing a smile to them.
Karen illustrated her talk with many examples e.g. a ‘make-over’, a trip to MacDonalds, a visit to the cinema, a hair appointment etc. Small treats that make a child forget their problems for a little time.
www.milesofsmileslancashire.com
12th July 2009 – Sponsored Walk
We were lucky again with the weather on the Sunday in July although it was very windy along the front. 10 members drove to Blackpool and then walked along the Promenade to Cleveleys. After a short break for coffee we walked back to Bispham to savour fish and chips before re
turning to our cars. Friends and family, with members who could not participate, sponsored our walk and the proceeds went to Project SIerra, a Family an
d a Future, our current quadrennial project.
We wore white trousers and our SI Ramsbottom t-shirts and jackets to help to promote the organisation.
Members enjoyed the walk and the opportunity to talk. Some reported stiff joints the following day but we all thought it was worth the effort. The walk raised £322.
15th July 2009
On July 15th members distributed strawberry teas (an opened scone with cream and strawberry plus a slice of Victoria sponge) to many workers in shops and offices in the town. They were ordered the previous week. The cost was £2.00 and the club made over £700 for the Charities Account. Members enjoyed a busy but enjoyable morning putting the plates together and then distributing them.
8th September 2009 – Bury Domestic Violence Co-ordinator
Prior to the Business Meeting on 8th September we had an address from Jaria Hussain Lala who is the Strategic Co-ordinator for Domestic Violence in Bury. We have been concerned that the only facility for victims of Domestic Abuse in Bury had closed and we wanted clarification on how the Borough are to move forward to offer support to victims of this growing crime. Jaria outlined the strategy using a multi-agency approach which had been formed in consultation with survivors and Domestic Violence Forum members. Currently this is a strategy and she could not reassure members on when the provision of a refuge will be realised. We were asked to support the White Ribbon Campaign by the provision of overnight bags and books for children.
22nd September 2009 – Fortalice – Bolton Women’s Aid.
Two voluntary workers, one of whom was a past recipient of the help available from Fortalice, spoke to members of the club at the Red Hall. Fortalice, funded by Bolton Metropolitian Borough, provide a range of services on a one to one basis or over the telephone to women victims of domestic violence. This can range from information, advice and ongoing support to help in resettling in new accommodation and temporary emergency accommodation. Fortalice is a physical facility with self-contained accommodation which is available for temporary stays for women who are subject to domestic Violence. Free counselling services with advice and support is provided and also training including Assertiveness, Safer Relationships, Personal Safety, & Victim to Survivor courses. Groupwork covers confidence building, self esteem etc. We offered support to the group and they are to contact us with suggestions on how we can help. The women were asked whether victims of Domestic Abuse in Bury would have recourse to the facility – Fortalice is principally for residents of Bolton but they do have a duty to help others if they contact the centre.
11th November 2009 – Afternoon tea for elderly members of the community.
Members arrange
d sandwiches, baked cakes and made trifles etc to provide afternoon tea to the elderly members of our community. Invitations had gone out about a month ago, delivered by hand to known older members who didn’t go out often. We had music provided by a four piece band who also played for a demonstration of line dancing by Ramsbottom members. 35 ladies and gentlemen enjoyed the food, a game of bingo and a free raffle. We were delighted at the success of the venture and hope to repeat it next year.
10th December – Christmas Treats
Like our Strawberries Teas, at Christmas we make Treats for the local workers in shops and offices throughout Ramsbottom. This morning we all gathered at the Cricket Club and made up plates with a mince pie, a slice of Christmas cake and a truffle. These had been ordered in advance and were all delivered by lunchtime. poceeds to the Charity Account for distribution at the end of the Presidential year.
Christmas Donations
Members do not sent Christmas cards to each other, instead they make a donation to provide food parcels which are distributed by Victims’ Support.
26th January 2010
This evening we had two speakers from Bury Victims Support who gave an update on their work and services. Lynn Tierney, the service manager was introduced by Chantelle Kaci. She was informative and interesting and gave some ideas on how the members can support the work of Victims Support. Chantelle is an independent domestic violence advocate, she spoke about her work with victims of domestic abuse.
23rd February 2010
Two young carers from Bury came to tell us of their lives and how they cope with the problems and respoinsibilities of caring for others. They enjoyed a meal with us and answered questions. One of the organisers from Bury Young Carers came with them