The Banbury Rotary Club has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to the welfare of children and the community. Following their highly successful ‘Children Singing for Children’ concerts at St Mary’s Church in November, which garnered substantial support for various children’s charities, the club’s latest gestures of goodwill have brought hope and joy to many.
The first of these heartwarming events took place when representatives from the Rotary Club of Banbury, including John Groves, Jonathan Meredith, and Alan Woolstencroft, presented a generous cheque of £1,300 to Dogs for Good. This UK-based charity is renowned for its dedication to breeding and training dogs to assist adults and children with physical and learning disabilities, children with autism, and adults with dementia. Olivia Rainford, Director of Income Generation, along with Mel How, Training Team Leader at Dogs for Good, gratefully received the donation. They were accompanied by Angel, a trained dog from the charity, who stole the show with her presence. Reflecting on the impact of their work, Olivia remarked, “We all know the difference dogs can make to our lives. But for the people they support, our dogs can actually make life possible.” More about their mission can be found at Dogs for Good.
The spirit of giving continued as the Rotary Club welcomed James Ottley on 20th December 2024. James was presented with another cheque for £1,300 for Children Heard and Seen, a charity that plays a crucial role in supporting children with a parent in prison. James expressed his gratitude, noting, “The work of our charity drastically reduces the likelihood of children with a parent in prison also becoming offenders.” This donation is part of the proceeds from the same ‘Children Singing for Children’ concerts, highlighting the Rotary Club’s dedication to breaking cycles of intergenerational offending. By fostering improved emotional resilience and healthier family dynamics through mentoring and peer support, Children Heard and Seen helps these young individuals forge a brighter future. To learn more about their impactful work, visit Children Heard and Seen.
The Banbury Rotary Club continues to be a beacon of hope and support in the community. Their efforts not only provide immediate assistance but also invest in the long-term betterment of society. For those interested in the club’s various initiatives and how to get involved, more information is available on the Rotary Club of Banbury website.
Through these actions, the Rotary Club of Banbury exemplifies the profound impact that dedicated community service can have on the lives of many, proving once again that together, we can make life not just liveable, but also meaningful.
