Merle Furman
What specific projects, campaigns or aspects of your organisation will you promote at the 2006 Giving Exchange?
The Centre provides employment for 60 men and women with special needs. These individuals are intellectually challenged and/or have chronic psychiatric illness.
The workers are involved in the production of high quality craft goods that are in great demand on the market place. They are employed in a therapeutic, supportive environment. The strong work ethic and positive atmosphere of this Centre enhances their self-esteem. This dignity of labour and the demand for the goods, add value to the workers' lives on a daily basis. They have the opportunity to lead meaningful lives, to enjoy social contact, otherwise denied to them and to be in a structured and nurturing place.
How will your organisation fit and help promote the theme 'giving is not just about money' at the 2006 Giving Exchange?
In addition to the craft work undertaken, the Centre runs a successful up-market coffee shop and a gift service. Both these programmes are managed by employed staff and are assisted by volunteers. The use of volunteer services adds to the success of the projects, both financially and therapeutically.
The volunteers are screened and accepted on the volunteer programme if they are able to contribute to the needs of the organisation. They are productive as well as being supportive of the workers. The valuable contribution of their time is a direct saving on salaries and adds value to their lives as well as adding meaningfully to the organsiation.
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