And just like that, it feels like the summer is nearly over. From fantastic sunshine a few weeks ago to torrential rain yesterday which caused three leaks in our office ceiling, it’s maybe time to pop the flip flops away!
In my last ramblings, I mentioned I was volunteering at the Commonwealth Games, which I did last week. Whilst there was much criticism about the Games, eg tickets were too expensive, lack of publicity, no tv coverage, top GB athletes pulling out, the one constant positive was how brilliant Glasgow is and how friendly and welcoming everyone was.
Like Home-Start, relationships were key at the Games and whilst many areas were out of the city’s control, people’s attitude and behaviours were the gift that will hopefully be the lasting legacy.
Home-Start GNNL was delighted to informally join in with the Games celebrations having secured a small amount of funding through the Festival Fund. We were delighted to be joined by 120 parents and kids who had opportunities to try out a variety of sports from boxing to golf, hurdling to ball throwing. Along with a healthy picnic lunch, families were thrilled to see the ice cream van and birthday cake, celebrating 25 years of HSGNNL. Supported by staff and volunteers, the day felt the perfect summer party for all to enjoy.
As always, we are keen to welcome new volunteers to our team. We still have a lengthy waiting list for families requiring help and whilst staff can provide initial support, we know that in the main volunteers are the most appropriate and preferred option. Volunteers are the heart and voice of our mission so please shout loud about your experience and point any interested parties our way.
25 years is no mean feat for a charity, and it reflects resilience, flexibility, determination and perseverance. Every volunteer, funder, partner and beneficiary has played a part in building a legacy of lasting impact. We are delighted that we are commissioning an evaluation of our services which we hope will reflect the real difference we have made in communities across the North of Glasgow and North Lanarkshire. We have also been working hard with Professor Helen Cheyne, from Stirling University, to evaluate the Early Years Family Hub development and look forward to showcasing both evaluations in the near future.
Thanks again for your continued support.