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Annual Reception
We would like to extend a big thank you everyone who attended the Communtiy Links Annual Reception on Tuesdsay 19 October, which was generously hosted by one of our corporate partners.
Once a year, Community Links holds a reception to bring together all of our supporters – old and new – to thank them for their involvement and to remind them how much their support means to us.
Our last annual reception was generously hosted by BNY Mellon, whose support enabled over 100 people who gathered at this year’s event, to hear how they can reduce poverty, raise aspirations, extend opportunities, and strengthen our communities in the year ahead.
The reception was set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing economic and social landscape, on the eve of the government spending review, with cuts and re-alignments in public expenditure underpinned by the vision of the Big Society.
Alongside the launch of our annual review, attendees at the event heard about our strategic plan and the case for early action – highlighted by the launch of our co-founder David Robinson’s book ‘Out of the Ordinary’, and two stories from our service users that brought to life the importance of early intervention and the work that Community Links does.
Emma Krasniqui from our Open Door Advice project told the story of Celia, a single mother who came to Community Links as a volunteer in our advice centre, and as a result gained qualifications, renewed self esteem, and who is now working as an apprentice plumber.
Sally Rogers at our Play Sow and Grow project, told the story of Kylie, who first came into contact with Community Links as a young child via our Christmas appeal and our After-School clubs. Kylie became a sessional worker with our Holiday and After- School clubs, and now works with Community Links as a permanent member of staff as deputy of the Play Sow and Grow project.
The evening finished with a wonderful performance by the Community Links young people’s choir.
We would like to thank everyone who participated in the event, the continued support of our partners and supporters, and everyone we have worked with – and continue to work with at Community Links.