3H Autumn 2013 Newsletter Dec 2013

Autumn 2013 Newsletter Registered Charity No. 286306 DE Issue 72 And the Winner is.......3H! W hen these words were read out at a prestigious ‘Charity of the Year’ Awards ceremony in Tunbridge Wells in October, there was a feeling of relief that after 35 years, 3H had at last been recognised for the massive contribution it has made to helping many thousands of disabled children, adults and carers over the years to get away on a well-deserved break. Then came the thought that it was a ‘very well done’ to all the fabulous staff, the trustees and the volunteers who so selflessly give up a huge amount of time in order to ensure that 3H goes from strength to strength – even in the most difficult times. And then, after all the congratulations, how can we make the most of this accolade and increase donations so that we can help more and more people? In the area where we operate in and around West Kent, we are now looking for large employers to become our ‘Business Courtesy of Courier Media Group Buddies’. Ideally companies who have some connection with disability or holidays, who will have seen the publicity surrounding the award, and feel comfortable ‘getting into bed’ with an established charity who carry out good works in the community and are willing to help by way of holding sponsored events where both their staff and clients can get involved. And, of course, to raise funds. Donations from the business sector have fallen dramatically over the past five years and there is an urgent need to get businesses back into the ‘giving’ mode, now that many are starting to feel that the economic climate is ‘on the up’. Are you that someone, or do you know someone that will fit the bill? If so, please get in touch. Following on from the very successful Radio 4 Appeal earlier in the year, where, with the help of Peter Sissons, we raised almost three times the average total in donations. We have had runners and cyclists doing their bit on our behalf and we had stalls at local fetes (where the candy-floss stall was by far and away the most popular item – not with the parents I hasten to add!) In September, working with our friends at Jubilee Sailing Trust we rowed alongside 60 other teams in the infamous Dragon Boat Race at Bewl Water Reservoir. We didn’t win but had a great bonding day and hope to raise over £1,000! Shame about the weather! That’s some of the good news, but of course, the effort has to continue and we are so grateful for YOUR continued support. With best wishes Ed Langridge, Deputy Chairman Please help us raise funds for free when you shop online. It will cost you nothing extra but retailers will make a donation to us as a thank you for shopping with them. To register online go to www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/3hfund Fundraising made easy!