{"id":5231,"date":"2024-04-22T09:38:34","date_gmt":"2024-04-22T08:38:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sigbi.org\/richmond-and-dales\/?page_id=5231"},"modified":"2025-05-04T16:01:30","modified_gmt":"2025-05-04T15:01:30","slug":"events-2023-24","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/sigbi.org\/richmond-and-dales\/past-events-archive\/events-2023-24\/","title":{"rendered":"Events 2023-24"},"content":{"rendered":"

Update on March<\/h1>\n

International Women’s Day Exhibition<\/h3>\n

The main programme event in March was our International Women’s Day Exhibition, which was a real success.\u00a0 This has already been posted about separately, so does not require further detailed reporting.\u00a0 However, it was decided at our meeting in March to build on this success by planning another Exhibition for 2025.\u00a0 The working group will retain the exhibition entries as a permanent record by laminating them.\u00a0 They also plan to expand the project next year to include \u2018hidden women\u2019 – those who work behind the scenes and who had not been represented this time.<\/p>\n

March Meeting Speaker<\/h3>\n

Our guest speaker was Steph Pybus, who talked about “Starting a Business and Running a Family\u201d.\u00a0 Steph is the proprietor of Mini Explorers Nursery<\/a>.\u00a0 She recounted how she came to start this successful business at her home and farm at Crabtree Hall.\u00a0 Having looked for childcare facilities that she felt happy with while working as a textile designer, she found none of them met her hopes and expectations.\u00a0 \u00a0She decided that she could change focus, and provide what she wanted herself.\u00a0 Using a building that had become available on the farm, she created her own outdoor nursery where her children and others could benefit from a happy, carefree, healthy, outdoor lifestyle.\u00a0 \u00a0Probably the country\u2019s first Farm School, Mini Explorers has grown into a successful and busy nursery catering for 93 children daily and employing 40 members of staff.<\/p>\n

The children love attending and they are given nutritious food – freshly prepared on site – throughout the day.\u00a0 Parents can deliver their little ones early in the morning and collect them ready for bed at the end of the day if required.\u00a0 Offering places to children with special learning needs was a later development that has also been highly beneficial.\u00a0 Many parents have found positive and noticeable results for their children.\u00a0 Steph was thanked for her informative, enjoyable talk about her impressive outdoor school.<\/p>\n

Spouse Force<\/strong><\/h3>\n

President Babs has been busy this month.\u00a0 Her cheque presentation to the Northallerton & District Breast Cancer Support Group<\/a> has already been posted, but she also recently met up with the ladies running Spouse Force<\/a> in Catterick Garrison.\u00a0 They reviewed our relationship with them so far, which has been based on offering a similar experience for their members to the Sharing Our Skills project for Richmond School students.\u00a0 \u00a0 Spouse Force are keen to continue in September-November this year,\u00a0 though it is acknowledged that the number of attendees may need to be fluid depending on childcare requirements.\u00a0 They also offered to share experience with us on developing the use of social media for the Club, which we are keen to follow up.<\/p>\n

Reminiscence Sessions<\/h3>\n

Member Lorna Garrity has held further Reminiscence Sessions at care homes in the area, including Nightingale Hall<\/a> in Richmond and a second one at The Millings<\/a> in Bedale. These were very successful and well attended.\u00a0 Event Organiser at Nightingale Hall told Lorna that there had been a higher level of engagement in her session than other types of activities, and that it was an \u201cabsolute success\u201d with \u201cgood connection between the residents – and the Staff enjoyed it too!\u201d.<\/p>\n

Sharing Our Skills<\/h3>\n

With our guidance and support, the two students from Richmond School who are participating in this year’s SOS project are organising a fundraising and awareness event against domestic abuse.\u00a0 With the support of the Head of\u00a0 Sixth Form, they are arranging a walk for the Sixth Form students into Richmond Market Square wearing pink clothing, as well as high heels and fun accessories, on Monday 22nd April 2024 at 9am. They are liaising with Family Help Darlington, their chosen charity, for which they are also raising funds.<\/p>\n

They have conducted a photoshoot to make advertising posters for this event, and arranged for it to be captured by the Richmond School photographer.\u00a0 It will also be advertised on this website and the Richmond School website and social media pages.\u00a0 They will be setting up a Just Giving page for donations.\u00a0 \u00a0We were very pleased to hear about their impressive work.<\/p>\n

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Northallerton & District Breast Cancer Support Group<\/h1>\n

The Northallerton & District Breast Cancer Support Group has been our main charity this year, and President Babs recently attended their monthly meeting at The Village Inn, Brompton<\/a> to present a cheque for \u00a3625. This sum was raised with a Bingo Night run by the President and her husband, with support from many people including family & friends and other group members. This money will be used by the Breast Cancer Support Group to provide as much assistance as possible to breast cancer patients that may need extra help.\u00a0 This can be financial assistance – from paying fares when travelling to treatment or for extra childcare while they are being treated, for example.\u00a0 The group members are all themselves former Breast Cancer sufferers, so they also provide mental support to patients by inviting them to join the group to access the members experience and support. The people assisted are anonymous to the group and referred by hospital staff who care for patients in The Sir Robert Ogden Macmillan Centre in Northallerton\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n

Their details are listed in the Friarage Website under Local Support Groups for Cancer –Local support groups – South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust<\/a><\/p>\n

In the photo are, left to right: Debbie Ames, Irene Boreham (Grandmother of one of our 2022 SOS Students), Susie Birchill, our President (with chain), Pam Smith (Chair of the group), Sheila Simpson, Roz Leach, Jill Simpson & Judith Gathercole.<\/p>\n

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International Women’s Day Exhibition<\/h1>\n

To celebrate International Women’s Day this year we held a free exhibition at Richmond Town Hall.\u00a0 This was entitled\u00a0 \u201cWomen of Richmond\u201d, featuring photos and biographies of\u00a0 Richmond women past and present who have made a contribution to the local community through their careers or voluntary activities.\u00a0 This includes working in health services, serving in local government and the House of Lords, charity work, education, entrepreneurship, and sports clubs.\u00a0 A number of former and current members of Soroptimist International Richmond and Dales were among the 103 women represented.<\/p>\n

The exhibition took place on Friday, 8th March, which is International Women’s Day, in two sessions in afternoon and evening.\u00a0 Tea and cakes were served in the afternoon,\u00a0 and wine and nibbles in the evening.\u00a0 The event was a tremendous success, with 228 visitors.\u00a0 Between donations and two raffles we were also able to make a profit of \u00a3292 for our charity fund.<\/p>\n

\"Exhibition<\/a>
Exhibition ready<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"Opened<\/a>
Opened by the Mayor<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"The<\/a>
The Team<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

\"Busy<\/a><\/p>\n

Busy with raffle tickets<\/p>\n

\"Thorough<\/a>
Thorough inspection of exhibits<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"Quite<\/a>
Quite a crowd<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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February News<\/h1>\n

Here is the club’s update for February.\u00a0 After a very busy planning meeting in January, February was rather quieter.<\/p>\n

‘In-House’ Speakers<\/h3>\n

Instead of an outside speaker, this month we heard from two of our newer members about themselves.\u00a0 One talked about living in Australia, and her recent work as a writer and poet. She stressed the importance of sharing words of encouragement and affirmation with and about each other, to spread positivity.\u00a0 She then read her poem “The Power of Words”. The other member talked of her journey to becoming a nurse, and agreed about the importance of words – and of listening.\u00a0 She was drawn to her career by a desire to care for others, which is also why she became a Soroptimist.\u00a0 Soroptimists are all united in caring and trying to help the less fortunate.<\/p>\n

Swap Night<\/h3>\n

Members had also brought along books, DVDs and CDs for a swap evening in aid of our charity funds.\u00a0 All unclaimed items will find a home on the bric-a-brac stall at our next Town Hall Coffee Morning on 25th April.<\/p>\n

Business Notes<\/h3>\n

For those who were unable to attend our planning meeting, we confirmed the charities we will be supporting in the 2024-5 year.\u00a0 The first is Richmond and Dales Amateur Swimming Club,<\/a> helping in their campaign to fund special garments for their female swimmers to continue to train during periods.\u00a0 In its 50th Anniversary year, we will be working with the Richmondshire Museum<\/a>, who are delighted to hear we want to be involved in their celebration.\u00a0 We will also supporting the charity Smart Works<\/a> with gifts of clothes and accessories for their clients attending interviews.<\/p>\n

Members also handed in the packs of Smarties filled with 20p pieces which we have been collecting since last year (after eating the Smarties, of course).<\/p>\n

The PA Officer fed back news from the Regional Programme Action meeting which included invitations to take part in a Beach Clean at Scarborough with Yorkshire Wildlife Trust<\/a>, join the Big Plastic Count<\/a>, and to consider joining UK Programme Actions Committee Workgroups.\u00a0 Attention was also given to a paper circulated from the Women’s Environmental Network<\/a> (WEN) about the disproportionate impact of climate change on women.\u00a0 WEN is also looking for members to get involved in its campaigning.<\/p>\n

We were also delighted to confirm unanimously our support for the nomination of our Club President & Treasurer to be the next Yorkshire Region Treasurer.<\/p>\n

Lend With Care<\/h3>\n

We have been able to re-invest further repayments of our Lend With Care<\/a> micro-loans.\u00a0 This time we are helping a lady farmer in Ecuador, and – since the meeting – another lady farmer in Rwanda.<\/p>\n

International Women’s Day 8th March<\/h3>\n

Plans for our International Women’s Day<\/a> event were discussed.\u00a0 We are holding a free exhibition in the afternoon and evening of the day in Richmond Town Hall.\u00a0 The exhibition highlights “The Women of Richmond”,\u00a0 and the contribution they make to our community.\u00a0 Details of approximately 80 local women will be on display, and light refreshments will be provided.\u00a0 The project group have been very busy, and other members signed up to to support them as stewards\/hosts on the day.<\/p>\n

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Annual Planning Meeting<\/h1>\n

After our break for Christmas and New Year, the club gathered on Saturday, 20th January for our Annual Planning Meeting.\u00a0 This is an extended meeting which we hold each January to plan everything for the next club year – i.e. April 2024 – March 2025.\u00a0 With a mix of discussions and brainstorming sessions, we manage to cover a lot of ground.<\/p>\n

Programme Action<\/h3>\n

We started with an overview of what we have done in the current year’s Programme Action, and what we already have in the calendar for the rest of 2023-24 and beyond.\u00a0 It is always surprising when we get to this point in the year and reflect on all we have done.\u00a0 This year it was:<\/p>\n

Funding activities<\/strong>
\nWe held a Bingo Night at Richmond Rugby Club<\/a>, 2 Town Hall coffee mornings, and generated income for the Club via members use of EasyFundRaising<\/a> when making purchases online. These have funded:<\/p>\n

Breast Cancer Support Group, Northallerton & district
\nEVA Women\u2019s Aid \u2013 equipment and supplies for flats: our thanks go to Sue Eastham’s husband Barry, who is continuing to fund EVA via his garage business
\nLend with Care<\/a> \u2013 micro-financing: seeded with \u00a3250, further small loans made each month from repayments
\nColburn Foodshare<\/a> \u2013 food donations from meetings plus funding for Christmas Hampers and donations for warm rail
\nSI President\u2019s appeal donation \u2013 Opening the Door to a Brighter future<\/a>
\nRichmondshire Museum<\/a> \u2013 annual donation of \u00a350
\nSI Harare<\/a> \u2013 annual donation to support their work with supporting traditional birthing attendants, aid and equipment for Chikupo school & Dalston school, funding Society Of Destitute Aged (SODA)
\nPaying for SOS student’s meals at meetings<\/p>\n

We also agreed at the meeting to donate to Kids Cancer<\/a> charity. This will go towards a respite trip to Disneyland Paris for a local family who have a child with cancer<\/p>\n

Other activities<\/strong><\/p>\n

Sharing our Skills project \u2013 ongoing involvement with Richmond School<\/a> students
\nSpouse Force<\/a> \u2013 adaptation of SOS to provide similar support to Catterick Garrison project
\nOrange the World \u2013 awareness raising: UN 16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence<\/a>, Orange Cafe sessions, Methodist Church Christmas Tree Exhibition
\nCoffee, cake and chat sessions at Richmond and Colburn libraries<\/a> – support for local residents
\nSoroptimist Cups for Making a Difference \u2013 annual presentations continue in Wavell, Risedale & Richmond schools (plus Zimbabwe and India).\u00a0 Cups are presented to the student who has “Made A Difference” to the school or community.\u00a0 This is aimed at encouraging volunteering and community awareness
\nRecycling \u2013 spectacles, mobile phones, used stamps, sewing machines, tablet, printer cartridges
\nReading and recording news items for Richmond Talking Newspaper<\/a><\/p>\n

One of our new members has also revived a project called Reminiscences, done a few years ago.\u00a0 This involves her and another member visiting a local care home with a box of items loaned by the Richmondshire Museum.\u00a0 These encourage conversations with and between the residents.\u00a0 Lorna hopes to write these sessions up!\u00a0 A first one was held in December in Bedale, and was very successful.<\/p>\n

Looking forward\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

We have an event planned for March for International Women’s Day<\/a> – two sessions of\u00a0 an exhibition (with refreshments) at the Town Hall on “Women of Richmond”.\u00a0 We will be in the Town Hall again in May, for an event in association with Grumpy Mule<\/a> coffee company, about their work with Cafe Feminino<\/a> charitable foundation, and for 3 more Coffee Morning fundraisers through the year.<\/p>\n

Next Year’s Programme<\/h3>\n

During the day, we decided upon the programme for 2024-5:<\/p>\n

Several proposed charities were discussed, and we decided to support three next year in addition to our ongoing commitments.\u00a0 We will be raising funds with Richmondshire Swimming Club<\/a> in support of\u00a0their campaign to fund special clothing for female swimmers to use during their periods.\u00a0 Many of their less wealthy swimmers have to lose 25% of their training time for lack of\u00a0 these expensive pieces of equipment, making it impossible to reach their potential.\u00a0 We will also be supporting Smart Works<\/a>, which provides used clothing and accessories for young unemployed women, plus advice and support, so that they can make a good impression in job interviews.\u00a0 Finally, as the Richmondshire Museum<\/a> was founded by Richmond & Dales Soroptimists, we will be working with them to mark their 50th Anniversary this year.<\/p>\n

For our meetings, we chose speakers we wish to hear, including contributions from members: a wide variety of topics, some to do with our work, and others for interest<\/p>\n

We agreed some further fund-raising events in addition to those already booked.\u00a0 The students from Richmond School who attended the meeting were also enthusiastic about organising a fundraiser themselves at the school.<\/p>\n

And finally, we agreed some activities to bring the Club members together in a lighter vein: a visit with afternoon tea to Thornton Hall Gardens, and a Christmas Meal.<\/p>\n

Overall, a very successful day!<\/p>\n

November Activities<\/h1>\n

Here is an update on our November activities, in what proved to be a busy month.\u00a0 As we don’t meet in December, here are some Christmas Greetings from the club:<\/p>\n

\"Happy<\/a><\/h3>\n

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16 Days of Activism\/Orange Cafes<\/h3>\n

As already posted, we have been busy supporting the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.\u00a0 We held a fundraiser coffee morning at the Richmond Town Hall which doubled as an “Orange Cafe”.\u00a0 We raised a total of \u00a3263 for our charities, as well as promoting the campaign.\u00a0 To mark it’s end, we held a further “Orange Cafe” meeting on Sunday 20th December at Morro Lounge<\/a> in Richmond.\u00a0 This was attended by 7 members, who share a pre-Christmas chat and cuppa.<\/p>\n

Remembrance Day<\/h3>\n

Our President, Babs Hunt, represented the club at the annual Remembrance Service in Richmond.\u00a0 She laid a wreath at the War Memorial on our behalf alongside those presented by the many military and civilian organisations attending.<\/p>\n

\"Wreath<\/a><\/h3>\n

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Presentation at Regional Meeting<\/h3>\n

Babs also spoke at the Yorkshire Regional Meeting in November.\u00a0 It was our club’s invitation to present our Programme Action, and Babs did a fine job.\u00a0 She began with the Sharing our Skills project, in which her daughter took part.\u00a0 This introduced her mum to the club of which she is both President and Treasurer!\u00a0 She highlighted the students’ contribution to our Toilet Twinning<\/a> of Richmond, and ended with our current work on the 16 Days Campaign.\u00a0 \u00a0Reading out the poem written for this project by our new member, Lorna had considerable impact, with requests to be allowed to use it from other clubs.<\/p>\n

November Meeting<\/h3>\n

We were very pleased to be able to welcome 3 new members to our meeting in November.\u00a0 The meeting was held at the Colburn Community Hub<\/a>, with a meal cooked for us by the Community Cafe volunteers.\u00a0 Instead of a speaker, member Wendy Arrowsmith did an interview with Angie Dale, the stalwart activist and supporter of the Colburn Hub, and dedicated independent local politician.\u00a0 We heard the diverting and at times difficult story of Angie\u2019s upbringing in Colburn, her career in the army, and her journey through public service locally.\u00a0 Her dedication to the local community, especially those struggling to make ends meet, is inspirational.<\/p>\n

Members of the club brought donations of food for the Colburn Foodshare scheme, and voted to fund a donation of further items for Christmas Food Hampers.\u00a0 Some hundreds of these hampers are given to the needy in the district.\u00a0 Two members of the club went shopping and took our donation to Colburn of \u00a395:00 of goodies.\u00a0 Both donations included Fray Bentos tinned pies, which are particularly popular with clients.<\/p>\n

\"Food<\/a>
Donations to Foodshare<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"Christmas<\/a>
Christmas hamper contributions<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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Having received more repayments on our LendWithCare<\/a> loans, we have been able to make two further loans.\u00a0 These went to a group of lady traders in Malawi, and a lady farmer in Cambodia.\u00a0 This is such a wonderful way of making our charity money go further, and keep doing good.<\/p>\n

Finally, we were delighted to hear from new member Lorna that she is to revive the Reminiscences project.\u00a0 This was set up some years ago by our late long-standing member Sheila Harrisson.\u00a0 The project involves visiting care homes and similar establishments to encourage their residents to share memories about their lives with us and each other.\u00a0 This is done in conjunction with the Richmondshire Museum<\/a>, which provides boxes of historical objects from their collection, which stimulate conversations.\u00a0 Lorna will be having a ‘trial run’ at The Millings<\/a> in Bedale shortly.<\/p>\n

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UN Campaign 16 Days of Activism in Action<\/h1>\n

Our 16 Days of Activism Campaign launched on Saturday, 25th Nov at our Coffee Morning in the Town Hall<\/a>.\u00a0 We have persuaded over 50 businesses to put up our poster either in their window or inside their premises.\u00a0 Local Funeral Directors Blenkirons<\/a> are flood-lighting their premises in orange each night, and Johnsons Cleaners<\/a> have produced a 16 Days of Activism T-Shirt which adorns a dummy in their window.\u00a0 We have also decorated a Christmas Tree in the Richmond Methodist Church<\/a> as part of their Christmas Tree Festival.\u00a0 Here are some images of 16 Days of Activism in action.<\/p>\n

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\"Our<\/a>\"Blenkirons<\/a>\"Posters<\/a><\/p>\n

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\"Posters<\/a>\"T-Shirt<\/a>\"Posters<\/a><\/p>\n

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UN Campaign 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence<\/h1>\n

\"16<\/a>This year SI Richmond and Dales is taking part in the annual UN Campaign 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence<\/a>.\u00a0 The campaign runs from 25th November – International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women to 10th December – International Human Rights Day, with the slogan for the campaign is “Orange the World<\/a>“.\u00a0 We are raising awareness of these issues with a campaign to “Orange Richmond”.\u00a0 We have persuaded over 50 businesses across the town centre to display posters we have designed and provided, together with flyers for customers to take away.\u00a0 \u00a0The club is holding an Orange themed Coffee Morning on 25th November, and meeting for an Orange Cafe session at Morro Lounge, Richmond at 10:30 on 10th December. We will also be decorating a 16 Days of Activism themed Christmas Tree in Richmond Methodist Church<\/a> from 1st December, as part of their annual charity Christmas Tree display.<\/p>\n

Gender based violence may be experienced by anyone, but is predominantly suffered by women and girls. It is one of the most widespread, persistent and devastating human rights violations in our world today. Sadly it remains largely unreported due to the impunity, silence, stigma and shame surrounding it.\u00a0 It occurs in many forms, such as:<\/p>\n

\u2022 partner violence (battering, psychological abuse, marital rape, femicide)
\n\u2022 sexual violence and harassment (rape, forced sexual acts, unwanted sexual advances, child sexual abuse, forced marriage, street harassment, stalking, cyber- harassment);
\n\u2022 human trafficking (slavery, sexual exploitation)
\n\u2022 female genital mutilation
\n\u2022 child marriage<\/p>\n

If you or someone you know is suffering, or has suffered abuse or violence, there are people who can help.\u00a0 For help, advice or more information, contact one of the following:<\/p>\n

Independent Domestic Abuse Services: \u00a0\u00a0https:\/\/idas.org.uk\/contact\/<\/a>
\nEVA Women\u2019s Aid\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 https:\/\/evawomensaid.org.uk\/<\/a>
\nFamily Help Darlington\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 https:\/\/www.familyhelp.org.uk\/<\/a>
\nUnseen UK\u00a0 https:\/\/www.unseenuk.org\/<\/a>
\nSIYAMS: Soroptimist International of Yorkshire Against Modern Slavery https:\/\/sigbi.org\/yorkshire\/si-yorkshire-anti-slavery-group-overview\/<\/a><\/p>\n

One of our new members has written the following evocative poem inspired by the campaign:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Is it time<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

He\u2019s jealous, possessive<\/em><\/strong>
\nand tries to control me<\/em><\/strong>
\nHe makes me feel guilty<\/em><\/strong>
\nAnd thinks that he owns me<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

He takes my money<\/em><\/strong>
\nAnd judges my clothes<\/em><\/strong>
\nHe threatens to leave<\/em><\/strong>
\nIf I don\u2019t do as I\u2019m told<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

He teases and bullies<\/em><\/strong>
\nAnd slaps me around<\/em><\/strong>
\nMakes me cry and afraid<\/em><\/strong>
\nand throws me to the ground<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

He hates my family<\/em><\/strong>
\nAnd I can\u2019t see my friends<\/em><\/strong>
\nI feel so alone<\/em><\/strong>
\nHow will this all end?<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

Deep inside\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>
\nI know this is wrong<\/em><\/strong>
\nI must take ownership<\/em><\/strong>
\nI must be strong<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

I need to get out<\/em><\/strong>
\nI must go somewhere<\/em><\/strong>
\nBut what about money<\/em><\/strong>
\nSupport and childcare<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

We love you and can help<\/em><\/strong>
\nYou are not alone<\/em><\/strong>
\nThere is support for you<\/em><\/strong>
\nJust pick up the phone…<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

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Our Activities in October<\/h1>\n

Here is an update on our activities in October, which has been quite a busy month.<\/p>\n

Soroptimist Cup Presentation at Risedale School<\/h3>\n

President Babs Hunt attended the Risedale School<\/a> Awards night on 11th October.\u00a0 She presented the Soroptimist Cup for Making a Difference to student Ellie McGee.\u00a0 Ellie’s citation described her as “a wonderful positive asset to the School.\u00a0 Always smiling, she approached everything she did with positivity and enthusiasm and was a role model for had her peers.\u00a0 It is a pleasure to be able to reward Ellie for her uncountable contributions to Risedale School life, and we wish her every success in her future endeavours.”<\/p>\n

\"Ellie<\/a><\/p>\n

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Mayors Civic Service<\/h3>\n

Member Jan Beeton represented the club at the Mayor’s Civic Service.\u00a0 The current Mayor is the husband of one of our members – community service runs in the family.<\/p>\n

\"Jan<\/a><\/p>\n

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October Meeting<\/h3>\n

We were very happy to welcome 3 prospective new members to our meeting, and 2 representatives of Spouse Force<\/a>.\u00a0 Spouse Force works to engage army spouses in community activity\u00a0 in and around the Garrison, and reduce isolation.\u00a0 \u00a0Our Club is developing a partnership with SpouseForce to enable their members to join our meetings in a similar manner to our Richmond School<\/a> students on the Sharing our Skills project, which has been running for 12 years now.<\/p>\n

The Fellmongers Company of Richmond<\/h4>\n

Jan was also the speaker at our October Meeting. She told us about the fascinating history of the Fellmongers Company of Richmond<\/a>, of which she is a member.\u00a0 The origins lie in the medieval craft guilds which were found in market towns throughout the country.\u00a0 Each represented a particular craft, and was both a way of keeping the “mysteries”\u00a0 (craft techniques) of the crafts secret, to protect their livelihoods and maintain craft standards by limiting entry to qualified people.\u00a0 Ancient Guilds here in Richmond date from the mid 1100\u2019s.\u00a0 Jan showed us the two crests of the Skinners and Glovers which amalgamated to form the Fellmongers, which were two of thirteen Trade Guilds in the town.<\/p>\n

The modern-day Mayors of Richmond wear a wonderful ceremonial chain depicting all thirteen guild crests.\u00a0 On St George\u2019s Day the Fellmongers of Richmond elect their new Master.\u00a0 The election is then followed by a procession to St Mary\u2019s Church and a service of rededication for the Guild.\u00a0 Women are now equally a part of the Guild, and both our local ‘dignitaries’ Baroness Hale and Baroness Harris are former Masters. Each year there is also an Apprentice Award evening, to recognise the achievements of the local apprentices who have received Guild support.<\/p>\n

Jan ended with a wonderful story of a Richmond resident, Henry Bradrigg, a Fellmonger and Alderman of Richmond in the 1th century. During the plague of 1645, when 600 people of Richmond died, many of the wealthier people fled for safety.\u00a0 However, Henry stayed on, he did a great deal to help and support the townsfolk of Richmond who became infected with plague.\u00a0 He set up \u2018pest houses\u2019 on the edge of town to isolate people, and paid for food to be delivered, as well as visiting victims to offer support.\u00a0 He suffered personal loss as his wife Anne, his grandson Henry, and his maid Anne, all died from the plague.\u00a0 Many Richmond people survived because of Henry\u2019s help and support.<\/p>\n

Certificates Awarded<\/h4>\n

President Babs was pleased to be able to present 3 Certificates to members of the club.\u00a0 Anne Potts and Anne Morton were given Soroptimist International 30 Year Long Service Awards, and Jenny Cathcart, PA Lead, accepted a SI Yorkshire Region<\/a> shared Programme Action Award on behalf of the club.\u00a0 This was awarded for our Toilet Twinning of Richmond in this year’s Regional Awards.<\/p>\n

Babs will be attending the next Yorkshire Regional Meeting in November at which she will be doing a short presentation on our Programme Action.<\/p>\n

Programme Action Plans<\/h4>\n

Members signed up at the meeting to help run our fundraising Coffee Morning at the Richmond Town Hall<\/a>, which will be taking place on the morning of 25th November.\u00a0 There was also an updated on plans for our campaign of awareness raising for the United Nations 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence<\/a>.\u00a0 We are planning to canvass businesses and other organisations around Richmond and Leyburn – plus the Garrison, with support from Spouse Force.<\/p>\n

We aim to persuade them to put an orange display in their windows and display one of the posters Jenny has designed for the project on the “Orange the World” theme of the 16 days campaign.\u00a0 We will also provide flyers for their customers to pick up.\u00a0 As we are trying not to impinge on the vital Christmas shopping period, we will run the campaign from 25th to 30th November, tying it into our Coffee Morning as an ‘Orange Cafe’. The campaign will end with an Orange Cafe meeting at Morro Lounge<\/a> on the 1st of November.<\/p>\n

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Bingo Night<\/h3>\n

On Friday 27th we held a very successful fundraising Bingo Night at the Richmond Rugby Club<\/a>.\u00a0 Over 60 people attended, taking part in four fun games of Bingo plus a raffle, and consuming a delicious ‘Pie, Pea and Mash’ supper prepared and served by the Rugby Club Chef.\u00a0 We raised a total of \u00a3576 after costs, which is going to support Northallerton & District Breast Cancer Support Group<\/a>, our charity for the year.<\/p>\n

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September Update<\/h1>\n

Soroptimist International Convention in Dublin<\/h3>\n

Here is the September update on our activities, which featured lively meeting this month.\u00a0 Two members reported back on their experience of attending the Soroptimist International<\/a> Convention in Dublin.\u00a0 They attended as part of a 50 strong party from the Yorkshire Region who travelled to Dublin together.\u00a0 The party added exploration of the city to the Convention meetings.\u00a0 There was praise for the Dublin Convention Centre’s exceptional organisation and efficiency.\u00a0 The Centre staff succeeded in providing tea, coffee, and a hot lunch to 1600 SI members without queues.<\/p>\n

There were several impressive speakers at the Convention.\u00a0 The keynote speech was given by the former President of Ireland, Mary Robinson. She is currently chair of The Elders group at the United Nations, of which she is a founder member. The main themes of the convention were Gender Equality and The Environmental Crisis.\u00a0 There was discussion\u00a0 on the experience of social and political pushback in many parts of Europe against previous gains in gender equality.\u00a0 It was also pointed out that women and children are often disproportionately impacted by the effect of climate change in vulnerable parts of the world. They are likely to be suffering high levels and poverty and deprivation already in many such communities.<\/p>\n

The report from Convention sparked considerable discussion in the club.\u00a0 This highlighted the important of organisations such as Soroptimist International continuing their work.<\/p>\n

Yorkshire Region<\/h3>\n

Members are proud that one of our number, Judith Clark, will be joint President of the SI Yorkshire Region<\/a> in 2024-5, having been appointed joint President-Elect from November.\u00a0 Judith has been a stalwart Soroptimist for many years. She has served on the Regional Council as Secretary for some years, as well as undertaking several officer posts in Richmond and Dales, including President.\u00a0 \u00a0The Richmond & Dales club has been nominated to take its turn in providing a presentation about our programme action at the incoming President’s lunch and Council meeting in November.\u00a0 Our President Babs has agreed to do this talk for us.<\/p>\n

Income and Spending<\/h3>\n

The club received over \u00a390 this month from EasyFundraising<\/a> donations, which will go into our current charity fund.\u00a0 \u00a0President Babs thanked those who participate in this scheme, and encouraged others to join in.\u00a0 Repayments from LendwithCare<\/a> have also enabled the club to make a further loan to a group of ladies in Malawi.<\/p>\n

Plans for Upcoming Events<\/h3>\n

Members agreed plans at the October meeting for\u00a0 awareness raising during the UN 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence<\/a>, which has the slogan “Orange The World<\/a>“.\u00a0 This event runs this year from 25th November to 10th December.\u00a0 We aim to “Orange” Richmond for the period, by encouraging local businesses to put “orange” displays in their windows, and\/or light up premises orange.\u00a0 A team is taking this plan forward, and developing publicity materials to support the campaign.\u00a0 Our fundraising Coffee Morning at the Town Hall on 25th November will be an “Orange Cafe”.\u00a0 Two further Orange Cafe sessions will be held – one on 1st December at The Ralf Fitzrandal pub in the evening, and the other at Morro Lounge on 10th November from 10:30 am.<\/p>\n

We will also be holding our fundraising “Bingo Night” at the Richmond Rugby Club<\/a> on 27th October.\u00a0 Entry is \u00a313:00 which includes a “pie & pea” supper and the first game.<\/p>\n

Sharing Our Skills<\/h3>\n

Member Chris Bowran has led the Sharing our Skills project since it began 12 years ago.\u00a0 She invited other members to join here in discussions with Richmond School<\/a> on selecting a new group of students to shadow our meetings in early 2024.\u00a0 This project introduces young students to volunteering and gives them insight and experience in how organisations work.\u00a0 It also and raises their awareness of the issues facing women and children around the world.<\/p>\n

We also hope to have two representatives of Spouse Force<\/a> sharing a similar experience by being at our October and November meetings.\u00a0 Spouse Force was set up by a Catterick Garrison resident who is keen to bring together army spouses to encourage them in local volunteering and community work.\u00a0 Army spouses often experience loneliness and isolation due to the frequent moves from location to location which is characteristic of army life.\u00a0 \u00a0It is hoped that Spouse Force can bring them together, and also help them develop self-confidence and useful skills for employment. We hope that Spouse Force and SI Richmond and Dales can develop another ongoing relationship which is as fruitful as the student SOS project has been.<\/p>\n

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Soroptimist Cup for Making a Difference<\/h1>\n

Member Sue Young recently attended the Richmond School<\/a> Awards night to present the Soroptimist Cup for Making a Difference to this year’s recipients.\u00a0 We donated this Cup to be awarded each year to pupils in recognition of outstanding voluntary actions contributing to the school or the local community .\u00a0 This year it was awarded jointly to Amy Salvin, Thomas Greer and Toby Watson.\u00a0 The three of them were inspired by a visit to the Store House foodbank which helps local people who are struggling to feed their families.\u00a0 Amy, Thomas and Toby ran a campaign to raise awareness of this issue in the school.\u00a0 They delivered assemblies and organised quizzes where the entry fee was a food donation.\u00a0 This was a great success, resulting in more than 1000 items being donated to the food bank.\u00a0 Worthy winners of our cup, indeed!<\/p>\n

\"Soroptimist<\/a> \"Soroptimist<\/a>\"\"<\/a>\"Soroptimist<\/a><\/p>\n

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Update for August<\/h1>\n

We don’t have a regular club meeting in August, as so many people are away on holiday.\u00a0 However, that doesn’t mean no activity that month! Here is my update for August:<\/p>\n

Kiplin Hall Visit<\/h3>\n

A group of members and their other halves went on a guided tour of the local historic house Kiplin Hall.<\/a>\u00a0 We had an excellent tour guide, who took us through the history of the house whilst displaying its architecture and contents.\u00a0 This impressive Jacobean mansion was built by successful statesman George Calvert, 1st Baron Baltimore, from 1619.\u00a0 He was also the founder of the American colony in Maryland, and there are ties between the house and it’s American connections to this day. The last family owner, Bridget Talbot, bequeathed it to the Trust she set up in 1971, and opened it to the public.\u00a0 Bridget Talbot was a notable woman in her own right and would have made a great Soroptimist.\u00a0 She was honoured by the Italian Government for her service as a nurse during World War I as well as being a talented artist in the Arts & Crafts movement.\u00a0 Examples of her exquisite marquetry work can be seen in the Hall.\u00a0 After the enjoyable tour we had a pleasant lunch together in the tea-room, but the rain sadly prevented us from spending the afternoon exploring the extensive grounds and lake.\u00a0 Maybe next time! One of our members is a regular volunteer at the Hall.\u00a0 Anyone who is interested in joining her would be heartily welcomed.<\/p>\n

Donations<\/h3>\n

Member Sue Eastham’s husband Barry presented Richinda from EVA Women’s Aid<\/a> a load of supplies for their flats which he has donated from his garage business. We – and Richinda – are very grateful for his generosity. \"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

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Other members have also been busy this month.\u00a0 Jenny Cathcart has donated an Android Table to Colburn Community Support<\/a>, and Faye Doorbar has donated a sewing to Colburn Community Foodshare<\/a>, and an embroidery machine to Just the Job for use on their craft products.\u00a0 \u00a0We have also been able to make a further microloan through LendWithCare<\/a>. The first repayments on our 6 loans from June were enough to make the further loan, to a lady in Zambia.<\/p>\n

Orange Cafe<\/h3>\n

We were delighted to welcome a potential new member who came to our Orange Cafe drop-in at Morro Lounge<\/a> on 25th.\u00a0 As well as members wearing orange, we were joined by Faye’s dog – suitably ginger haired and arrayed in orange trimmed harness and felt flower. \"Orange<\/a> Anyone who wishes to find out more about us is welcome to join us at Morro Lounge in Richmond from 10:30 on the 25th of each month.<\/p>\n

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July Meeting<\/h1>\n

The speaker at our July meeting was Alice Rose, Programming curator of Kiplin Hall<\/a>, the local Jacobean historic house.\u00a0 Alice described her role then went on to describe the history of the house and its families and current facilities and exhibitions for visitors.\u00a0 She also outlined future plans for the Hall and grounds in a wide-ranging and fascinating talk. We will be visiting as a group in August.<\/p>\n

We were delighted to welcome two new members at this meeting – Rachel Pavitt and Jane McLennan.\u00a0 They were welcomed and presented with their badges by the President and their mentors, Chris Bowran and Sue Eastham.\"New<\/a><\/p>\n

President Babs reported back on her attendance at the Yorkshire Region meeting held in July at Askham Grange Prison. She was impressed by the speakers, and the experience of visiting the prison.\u00a0 Christina Gabbitas spoke of her work writing educational stories, passing on knowledge to school children on drugs\/knives using animated videos, comic strips and poems, and Dishi Attwood, SIGBI Director of Membership talked about how she engages potential new members by storytelling.\u00a0 The next RCM will be in September, where the Programme Action awards will be voted on.<\/p>\n

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Programme Action updates<\/h2>\n

Programme Action officer Jenny has written to our MP, Rishi Sunak, urging action to implement the recommendations of the SIGBI Special Report on Domestic Abuse Courts, which highlights deficiencies in the operational procedures impacting on victims.\u00a0 The report has also been forwarded to other local organisations asking them to support us in this campaign.<\/p>\n

Plans were discussed for a new fundraiser project being planned for next year.\u00a0 This will be a “coffee and cake” event at the Town Hall next Spring in association with Grumpy Mule<\/a> coffee, promoting their “Cafe Feminino”\u00a0 initiative which supports a Peruvian women’s coffee growing cooperative, and assists them and their children.\u00a0 Sue Young, who is organising the event, learned about this through local Chocolate maker Mocha<\/a>, who sell Grumpy Mule coffee, so we will provide an outlet for selling their chocolate at the event.<\/p>\n

Plans are progressing with Spouse Force<\/a> on our joint project.\u00a0 We will be inviting 2 or 3 women from the Garrison to join our meetings for 3 months in the Autumn, to learn about volunteering, meetings and what Soroptimism is about.<\/p>\n

Babs also confirmed that our \u00a3220 donation has gone to the Soroptimist International President’s Appeal, ‘Opening the Door to a Brighter Future<\/a>‘.\u00a0 This supports educational initiatives in Cambodia, Uganda and Georgia.<\/p>\n

Progress on LendWithCare<\/a> Micro-financing<\/h2>\n

All the 6 female entrepreneur’s projects to which we lent money in June were quickly fully funded, and the first repayments have arrived.\u00a0 This was enough to enable us to make another loan, which has gone to a further female group in Zambia.<\/p>\n

Orange Cafe<\/h2>\n

\"Orange<\/a>Several members met for coffee at Morro Lounge<\/a> in Richmond.\u00a0 This was the latest in our regular “Orange Cafe” sessions held on the 25th of each month from 10:30am.\u00a0 This is aimed at promoting the United Nations Orange The World campaign to tackle violence against women throughout the world, and raise awareness of both this and Soroptimism.\u00a0 A range of useful leaflets and bookmarks are available for visitors joining us.<\/p>\n

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Cheque presented to Colburn Community Support<\/strong><\/h1>\n

Members Judith Clark and Sue Young visited Colburn Community Support<\/a> to present them with a cheque from our fundraising for this new organisation, set up last year, which provides support to the impoverished community of Colburn.\u00a0 CCS aims to support individuals, families, and businesses in the community by offering practical & admin support, budgeting & financial management advice, help with CVs, job applications & benefit forms, bereavement support, business mentoring and advocacy services.<\/p>\n

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June Meeting<\/strong><\/h1>\n

Our speaker at the June Meeting was Irene Boreham, from the Breast Cancer Support Group associated with The Friarage Hospital MacMillan Cancer Care Centre in Northallerton. Irene told us about her own journey through breast cancer and then went on to describe the history of the support group and the services it provides.<\/p>\n

All its members have and have survived breast cancer, which enables them to share experience with other sufferers.\u00a0 They provide emotional and practical support and social contact for breast cancer patients.\u00a0 \u00a0Through fundraising events they are also able to provide financial support to those in need of help to access their treatment.\u00a0 The group has been in existence for over 25 years, and has managed to weather the difficulties of Covid and continue its important work.\u00a0 This group is our chosen charity for this year.<\/p>\n

EVA<\/strong><\/h3>\n

After our inspiring talk last month by the Director of EVA Women’s Aid<\/a>, the husband of one of our members was highly impressed.\u00a0 So much so that he has agreed to donate \u00a3150 every month from his filling station business located near Redcar, EVA’s base.\u00a0 We were delighted to hear of his generosity.<\/p>\n

Bingo Night Fundraiser<\/strong><\/h3>\n

President Babs asked everyone to save Friday 27th October to our diaries. We will be holding a fundraising bingo night at Richmond Rugby Clu<\/a>b, with supper.\u00a0 Details to follow…<\/p>\n

International Women’s Day 2024<\/strong><\/h3>\n

A sub group has been set up and had it first meeting recently to plan our celebration of International Women’s Day<\/a> next March.\u00a0 The group have decided that the event will be called \u2018Women of Richmond\u2019.\u00a0 It will be held at the Richmond Town Hall<\/a> as a drop-in event with two time slots – one in the afternoon and the other in the early evening.\u00a0 Refreshments will be available, and an exhibition will be on show.\u00a0 We aim to highlight the careers of as many notable Richmond women, past and present, as we can.\u00a0 Members are invited to send President Babs nominations for the exhibition in time for the next sub-group meeting in late July.\u00a0 If anyone has access to display boards, the organising group would be grateful for offers for the exhibition.<\/p>\n

Orange Cafe<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Last month saw our first Orange Cafe meeting, when several members met for coffee and to discuss how best we can support this initiative.\u00a0 The aim is to promote awareness of
\nthe UN ‘Orange the World<\/a>‘ campaign to Eliminate Violence Against Women, and also of Soroptimism.\u00a0 We have agreed to hold a monthly meet-up at the Moro Lounge<\/a> in Richmond Market Place.\u00a0 The Moro Lounge management are being very supportive, as they wish to develop community links.\u00a0 \u00a0We will meet on the 25th of every month from 10.30, wearing orange and our \u2018Stop the Violence\u2019 badges, and displaying leaflets\/flyers etc, in the hope of interesting other customers in our activities.\u00a0 As well as having coffee and a nice chat!<\/p>\n

Lend With Care<\/strong><\/h3>\n

We have just donated \u00a3252 to the Lend With Care<\/a> programme, part of the Care International<\/a> charity. This programme provides loans – micro-finance – to small entrepreneurs in developing nations to enable people to start or develop businesses.\u00a0 These businesses help applicants out of poverty, so they can better support themselves and their families.\u00a0 Raising even small amounts of capital is incredibly difficult for people with low incomes, so this programme is invaluable.<\/p>\n

We divided the money up between 6 applicants, all women, living in Ecuador, Pakistan, Zambia, Vietnam, and Peru.\u00a0 Their businesses are very varied: dealing in dried fish, tailoring and dressmaking, livestock rearing, wig-making, and traditional textile embroidery.\u00a0 We wish all our ladies\u2019 luck in their enterprises. When they have been able to pay back their loans, we will be able to make more loans to new applicants.\u00a0 This is a wonderful way of providing aid which can be ongoing.<\/p>\n

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Coffee Morning on June 22nd<\/strong><\/h1>\n

We held another of our fundraising Coffee Mornings at Richmond Town Hall on Thursday June 22nd.\u00a0 Sadly, numbers attending were rather low – which has become the norm on Thursdays since the Covid pandemic.\u00a0 However, between serving teas, coffees and biscuits, and running a raffle, tombola and bric-a-brac stall we were able to raise a total of \u00a3123.50. A nice boost for our charity fund.\u00a0 Thank you to all those who came and supported us.\u00a0 Our next Coffee Morning will be a Saturday in November, which hopefully will draw more customers.<\/p>\n

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Presenting a Cheque to Friends of Garget-Walker House<\/h1>\n

Babs Hunt, our President, together with member Lin Clarkson recently presented a cheque to the Friends of Garget Walker House<\/a>.\u00a0 This was at a recent fundraising coffee morning run by the Friends, held in Richmond Town Hall. \u00a0The Friends of Garget Walker house provide resources, activities and support for dementia sufferers and their carers in Richmondshire.\u00a0 SI Richmond & Dales has supported the Friends with donations on several occasions.<\/p>\n

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Presentation of Cheque to Marrick Priory Outdoor Centre<\/h1>\n

Two of our members recently attended a fundraising lunch at Marrick Priory Outdoor Centre<\/a>, where they presented a cheque for \u00a3150, as an additional donation to the Centre. This is part of the money raised at our Quiz Night.\u00a0 Sue & Judith are pictured below with the Director on the bench we purchased for them earlier in the year.\u00a0 We have also received a “thank you” email, including a picture of the safety helmets, which were part of the earlier donation.<\/p>\n

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Update from our May Meeting<\/h1>\n

Here is our monthly update from our May meeting.\u00a0 We were very pleased to welcome visitors from two other SI Yorkshire Clubs – Regional Membership Officer Judith Parsons, and long standing stalwart of the Region, Pat Kilbane – and another prospective new member of our club.\u00a0 Judith and Pat congratulated the Club on its good record of recruiting new people.\u00a0 Judith spoke about the need to continue to bring new members into Soroptimism.\u00a0 This is designated “Membership Month”, but Judith says that every month should be membership month.<\/p>\n

EVA Women’s Aid<\/h3>\n

The Speaker for the meeting was another SI member – Richinda Taylor of SI Scarborough, Malton & District.\u00a0 Richinda was speaking in her capacity as CEO of the Charity EVA.<\/a> She \u00a0began\u00a0 her talk by reminding us of the vision of EVA, which is to end violence towards women and girls. The ethos of EVA was to create \u2018women only\u2019, safe places for women who had suffered\u00a0 violence and domestic abuse, and to support them. It is a chilling statistic that 3 women each week are killed by men.<\/p>\n

She went on to update the club on progress made on the new purpose built flats in Scarborough, one of which had been equipped using donations from SI Richmond & Dales.\u00a0 Richinda is determined to create safe spaces for those older\u00a0 women, who perhaps had suffered many years of domestic abuse or coercive control, and wanted to break free from the cycle of violence.\u00a0 This age group of women need specific care and skills to enable them to survive of their own.\u00a0 In a mixed group with younger women, the older women can be drawn into supporting the younger ones, who may see them as mother figures, rather than being able to concentre on their own recovery.<\/p>\n

Richinda devised a campaign to educate society in general that there is no age limit to domestic abuse. This was known as the \u201845+ Project\u2019. A number of older women felt empowered to break away from their abuser and come forward for help after this campaign.\u00a0 Richinda organised specific funding for the building of 7 purpose built flats in Scarborough, especially for these women. An outstanding achievement, and she tells us this is only the first! Richinda works with 17 funding providers, as EVA is not funded by the local authority. This is a full time job in itself, managing the grants and funding, and reporting back.<\/p>\n

EVA also provides education programmes (often devised by the women themselves) which inform women of their rights, and educates them in many areas, including how to avoid\u00a0 abusive relationships in the future.\u00a0 The club members were greatly impressed with Richinda\u2019s passion and commitment, and we are delighted delighted to have been able to support such a fantastic organisation.<\/p>\n

Richinda kindly gave us all an EVA \u2018goody bag\u2019\u00a0 to either hand to a woman in need, or to leave in a Doctor\u2019s waiting room.\u00a0 In return we presented her with a car boot load of items for her to take back to the flats – including duvets, bedding, towels etc.\u00a0 \u00a0Richinda thanked us most profusely for all our support.<\/p>\n

President’s Activities<\/h3>\n

Our new Club President, Babs Hunt, Babs has had a very busy start to her Presidency.\u00a0 She has represented the club at the Richmond Mayor\u2019s Charity Dinner; SI Selby Luncheon; Incoming Regional Presidents\u2019 Lunch and the Yorkshire Friendship day at Newby Hall.\u00a0 She will be attending the Richmond Mayor Making Ceremony next week, when Ian Woods (husband of our member Fiona Woods) will become Richmond Mayor.\u00a0 Representing the club at local events is a valuable way of raising awareness of Soroptimism, and highlighting what we stand for.<\/p>\n

Orange Cafe<\/h3>\n

Another SIGBI initiative was discussed at the meeting, following on from our participation last year in highlighting the UNESCO “Orange The World<\/a>” campaign to eliminate violence against women and girls. The plan is to integrate this with a social gathering for club members.\u00a0 On the 25th of each month – Orange The World Day – we will gather at a local cafe to have a coffee, wearing our Orange badges, and Soroptimist Blue clothing.\u00a0 This will enable us to highlight both the campaign and Soroptimism.<\/p>\n

Literature on the campaign focus and leaflets about Soroptimism will be available to pass on to anyone who shows an interest in our activity.\u00a0 As it is a Thursday, it was agreed that the first Orange Cafe meeting would be on 25th May at the Richmond Town Hall coffee morning.\u00a0 We could ‘kill two birds with one stone’ by supporting this coffee morning as it was also being run by one of our members on behalf of her charity.<\/p>\n

Our own Coffee Morning<\/h3>\n

We will be running a coffee morning of our own at the Town Hall on June 22nd to raise funds for the charities we are supporting. Members signed up to a volunteer sheet for this event, and were reminded to bring items for the raffle and tombola to the next meeting.<\/p>\n

SI Harare<\/h3>\n

Our new Friendship Officer, Wendy was delighted to report to us that SI Harare<\/a> had written to thank us for the money donated last year.\u00a0 They tell us they have bought a printer, ink and paper for Dalston Primary School, their latest project, and students were also presented with sanitary supplies in toiletry bags.\u00a0 We received some photos of the presentation:<\/p>\n

\"SI<\/a>\"Printer<\/a>\"Presentation<\/a>\"Pupils<\/a><\/p>\n

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April Meeting and AGM<\/h1>\n

This month was our April meeting and AGM.\u00a0 However, we began\u00a0 with an excellent talk on Guide Dogs for the Blind<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Guide Dogs for the Blind<\/h3>\n

Babs and Paul Hunt, together with Lynne Pinkney and Morrisa, her 22-week-old pup in training, provided an informative talk about the work of families who take on very young dogs for their first part of training. This is the beginning of detailed training to be a guide dog for a visually impaired person. Paul and Babs\u2019s dog, Eryn, who they had from 14 weeks to 16 months, has just left them to continue training in Leeds.<\/p>\n

The primary role of the first trainers is to socialize the dogs, taking them into many different environments and on as many forms of transport as possible. Verbal commands and expected behaviour must fit in with future training, to provide a companion for life. Morrisa, although young, showed how she had already learned to respond to commands.<\/p>\n

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Morrisa<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

We heard daunting facts that whilst 1:5 of the population has some degree of sight loss, every minute someone will lose their sight. Of this group 75% are unemployed. Having a guide dog counters this bleak statistic, but there just aren\u2019t enough. It takes two years to fully train a guide dog and there was an aim for 1000 new guide dogs to be created each year. The Covid Pandemic severely damaged this aim. The socialization programme had to be suspended due to the limitations on public movements and interaction,but in 2021 4,044 new guide dog partnerships were created.<\/p>\n

Training is expensive and reliant on funding. Sponsoring a guide dog is the main source, although naming a puppy for \u00a32,500, gifting in wills, lotteries and raffles also bring in funds. Of each \u00a31.00 raised, 53.1% is for guide dogs &amp; adult services, 8.3% on campaigning, 7.7% for children and young people, 0.5% on research and 27.9% Richmond and Dales on generating income. Current campaigns include support on public transport, such as audible announcement of stops on buses.<\/p>\n

After questions, thanks were given to the speakers, and they were presented with wine and plants.<\/p>\n

<\/h3>\n

Annual General Meeting<\/h3>\n

We looked back with pride at our activities and achievements over the last twelve months, both in programme action work and recruiting new members.\u00a0 \u00a0It is always surprising how much we have done every year!\u00a0 A significant part of the funds raised this year were carried forward from our very successful International Women’s Day<\/a> event last March, when Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson spoke at the Scotch Corner Hotel.\u00a0 We decided to do the same, and carried forward money raised at the Dame Vera Baird evening last month into the new year.\u00a0 Here is a summary of the charities and activities we have supported during 2022-23<\/p>\n

\u2022 Colburn Community Support<\/a> – donations to purchase equipment for this new community care charity.\u00a0 Colburn is the most deprived locality in our area.
\n\u2022 Colburn Foodshare & Community Hub<\/a> (food, books and sanitary products donations)
\n\u2022 Friends of Garget-Walker House<\/a> – donations to support this Dementia Care facility
\n\u2022 EVA Women\u2019s Aid<\/a> – equipping a flat in a new development at this Women’s Refuge
\n\u2022 Centenary Tree Planting (Richmondshire Landscape Trust<\/a>) – as part of the Soroptimist International Centenary celebrations
\n\u2022 Marrick Priory Outdoor Education Centre<\/a> – donations for equipment for use by visiting children
\n\u2022 Richmond & Catterick Riding for the Disabled<\/a> – funding for a day trip for disabled children
\n\u2022 Toilet Twinning<\/a> Richmond – working with the Toilet Twinning Charity, twinning the toilets in 20 public and commercial premises (which funds installation of toilet facilities without them in Africa, Asia and South America).\u00a0 We succeeded in making Richmond a Toilet Twinned town
\n\u2022 Sharing our Skills (SOS) in association with Richmond School<\/a> – involving students from Richmond School in our activities. This gives them experience of how organisations run, encourages the volunteering ethic, and raises awareness of women’s issues.
\n\u2022 SI Harare<\/a> projects – donation to assist our Friendship Link Club in Zimbabwe with their projects in this country which is facing so many challenges.<\/p>\n

There are also the \u2018ongoing initiatives\u2019, recycling various household and personal items, supporting the Richmondshire Talking Newspaper and Coffee & Cake Chat sessions at Richmond and Colburn libraries in association with CRACCL<\/a> (Catterick, Richmond & Colburn\u00a0 Community Libraries group). We have also donated sanitary ware via SI Yorkshire Region<\/a> to an orphanage in Ukraine, and have begun collecting empty pill strips for recycling, also via Yorkshire Region.<\/p>\n

All our officers were thanked for their sterling efforts in making the club such a success.\u00a0 The new President, Babs Hunt, was welcomed, and presented with the official chain of office by Sue\"Babs<\/a> Eastham.\u00a0 The new Executive Committee was also confirmed.\u00a0 Many officers have continued from last year, but Lin Clarkson has joined the committee as Communications officer, and Sue Eastham takes over as Membership Officer from our longstanding stalwart, Sandy Baxter.\u00a0 Our plans for the new year are already in place, following our big planning meeting in January, so we aim to be out of the blocks running!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

<\/h1>\n

 <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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