[T]he NSPCC in Cumbria marks the 30th anniversary of its service centre later this month, with the staff there having helped thousands of children across the county in the last three decades.
A special event has been planned to mark the work of staff and of course to applaud the efforts of those who made all this possible, the fundraisers. Fundraisers; such as the Furness Fundraising Committee, who have organised all sorts of events including popular coffee mornings, bag packing, fashion shows and sponsored walks, all to raise money for the NSPCC.
The committee has even had members run the London Marathon and thousands of people have enjoyed the Big Family Fun day they have organised in Barrow in Furness in the past but the Chair Loretta Blackburn’s personal favourite is the glamorous Ball they hold every three years.
Loretta who has herself been fundraising for the NSPCC for 32 years is full of praise and admiration for her committee who she says are such fun to work with, Loretta said “People want to volunteer to make a difference but fundraising can also mean making strong fun relationships, it really makes a difference when members come from all walks of life.”
Every year their efforts raise an incredible £30,000 to £40,000, amazing in an area where Loretta jokes the sheep outnumber the local population.
Loretta said “We are motivated by the thousands of children we have helped but also by the thought of the thousands of children who are abused and need the NSPCC’s help and sadly there is such need. I would also like to stress that doing something for charity enhances your own life as well as those whom you are aiming to help.”
The NSPCC in Cumbria is celebrating 30 years since its service centre was officially opened in 1987 by HRH Princess Margaret.
Sandra Jones the Community Fundraising Manager for Cumbria said “The Furness Fundraisers are truly amazing, their enthusiastic unstinting support is so very much appreciated. I hope their inspirational example will encourage others to come forward and help fund the work of the NSPCC in Cumbria for the next 30 years.”