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It is a huge pleasure to introduce the first edition of Together Newsletter in 2017 and my first as Chief Executive of Acorns .
I have often been asked why I was so excited about joining Acorns – rather than describing this myself , I prefer to point you to the generous words of Donna on page 4 , talking about the care her son Ritchie receives when he comes to our hospice , Acorns in the Black Country , based in Walsall . Donna describes Acorns as an “ absolute godsend ” – in my first 3 months at Acorns , I have already heard the care provided to the children by our incredible staff and volunteers described in these terms by so many families . It is such a joy and privilege to be asked to join a charity that makes such an impact .
We also know that while we want our support to feel like a “ godsend ” to parents like Donna , that it is in reality thanks to a huge , diverse and highly motivated care , fundraising and support team that we are able to do what we do . Acorns is an organisation where every pound counts – some of my most special moments to date have been spent in the company of the wonderful supporters and volunteers who work tirelessly and so very generously across the West Midlands to raise funds for us .
Many words will be written about 2016 . It was certainly a year of unexpected events . Many commentators talk about the next few years being characterised by uncertainty , as the implications of events such as the Brexit vote and the Trump election win play out . But we at Acorns know that there is no greater or more genuine uncertainty than that faced by parents such as Donna of children such as Ritchie when they learn that a son or daughter has been diagnosed with a life limiting or life threatening illness . But one thing that they can be sure of is that Acorns will be there for them , and do all we can for them . That is because of all of you . Thank you so much , and all the very best for 2017 from all of us at Acorns .
Toby Porter Chief Executive