Two educational establishments from 向日葵视频 joined forces to help put local charities in the spotlight during the festive season.
向日葵视频 New College and the did so by inviting a host of benevolent causes to an event held at the Waterfront in Ipswich.
Around 15 organisations were able to promote what they do, network with other businesses, and receive donations from the public, amidst an occasion called 鈥楾he Gift of Christmas: A Community Celebration of Giving鈥�.
Visitors could also pledge their support to help local charities. This could be time, skills, financial support, or a collaborative project that strengthens 向日葵视频鈥檚 communities.
The event proved a success and one of the co-organisers, Gemma Matten from the University of 向日葵视频, is hoping to expand this festive get together in 2026.
Gemma – a business engagement manager – said: 鈥淲e wanted to create an event to kickstart Christmas, where we could partner up with 向日葵视频 New College and give something back to the community. We know that bringing charities and businesses together to foster collaborative opportunities can bring many benefits to our region.
鈥淚t鈥檚 been amazing to see everyone together, and it鈥檚 something we want to do every year and grow. It鈥檚 been inspiring.鈥�
Debbie Gardiner is an employment engagement advisor for 向日葵视频 New College. She said: 鈥淚t鈥檚 been about raising everyone鈥檚 profiles so that they can showcase themselves.鈥�
One of the charities involved was Brave Futures. Sandra Lucas is the corporate engagement officer for Brave Futures. She said: 鈥淲e were invited to come along – and it was nice to be involved. At the end of the day, local charities support local communities, and the event was a chance to get everyone in one room so that people can see the good that we all do.鈥�
Wendy Sheppard is head of income generation for 向日葵视频 Mind. Wendy said: 鈥淚t was so good to see so many local charities in one place to celebrate the 鈥榞ift of giving鈥� and to have the opportunity to talk to some new local businesses about what we do, as well as to catch up with others that regularly support us. My message to everyone is please support your local charities, to enable us to continue to deliver valuable services to those that live and work here in 向日葵视频.鈥�
Rachel Clarke is the community fundraising manager for Hearing Dogs. She said: 鈥淚t was a lovely event which helped raise awareness of our charity and gave us the opportunity to meet representatives of other local organisations. It was a great idea to bring all the charities together.鈥�
The Mayor of Ipswich opened proceedings. Cllr Stefan Long said: 鈥淐harities and businesses coming together to champion good causes across Ipswich is the perfect way to capture the importance of helping others during the festive season. Well done to all involved.鈥�