Bringing a new twist to community fundraising, Faringdon & District Rotary Club hosted a Dragon’s Den-style event that awarded funds to 13 local organisations – including the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust.
Three judges listened to a series of passionate and often moving presentations from community groups such as mental health support, sport, music, the environment and sustainability.
The atmosphere in the room was charged with excitement and anticipation as each organisation presented their case. Every group was assured of receiving funds as part of the Rotary Club’s commitment to support a broad range of charitable work in Faringdon.
As the judges deliberated the amounts to be awarded, participants enjoyed a dinner. This provided an opportunity for local organisations to get together and allowed people to share their experiences, challenges and successes - paving the way for future partnerships and initiatives.
Karen, president of the Rotary Club, spoke warmly about the event. “It is humbling to see the tremendous community spirit in Faringdon,” she said. “It gives us great pleasure to be able to support such amazing charitable work.”
Funds distributed were the result of a year’s worth of charity runs, firework displays, pizza selling and various other community events. As well as providing financial support, the Rotary Club also brought together community leaders, volunteers and local organisations.
The groups receiving funds from Faringdon & District Rotary Club are as follows:
- Faringdon Singers
- 1st Faringdon Scouts – Beaver section
- Wilts & Berks Canal Trust (WBCT)
- The Place
- FAAAZE
- Goodlake Explorer Scouts
- Root & Branch
- Faringdon Folly Tower Trust
- Friends of Shellingford School
- Elms Primary School
- Faringdon Day Centre
- Sustainable Shrivenham
