News
Mayday Trust is proud to be featured in the local and national news. Our online News Archive includes stories and Press Releases of recent events.
For more information about any of these stories please contact Lisa Carroll, Fundraising, Marketing & Communications Manager on 01788 534961 or lisa.carroll@maydaytrust.org.uk
May 2010
Dragon Boat Race Hailed A Great Success
On Sunday 23 May Mayday Trust joined Needham & James solicitors to enter a fundraising Dragon Boat race. The event was a huge success which, including gift aid, raised a total of £3,206.78.
Caroline Ward, Chief Executive of Mayday Trust and a Dragon Boat Paddler said: "We would like to say a huge thank you to
all participants and to Needham & James for all their support. The team-spirit on the day was fantastic and everybody enjoyed a fantastic day out."
Michael Varah & Jim Higgins Awards For Excellence Announced
Launched in 2008, in honour of the charity’s founders, “The Michael Varah and Jim Higgins Award For Excellence” celebrates the achievements of Mayday Trust’s most outstanding clients. With support from The Michael Varah Memorial Fund, Mayday Trust has this year awarded over £2,000 to seven individuals from across the Trust.
The awards were presented during the preview of the charity’s 50th Art Exhibition at Leighton Buzzard Theatre on Wednesday 5 May.
Shining Light Award - In addition to the main award scheme 2010 sees the introduction of the Shining Light Award. The winner of this prize has demonstrated that they are an inspiration to others. He has been presented with a special trophy and a grant of £650.
Mark Powell, a resident at Mayday's Leamington & Warwick Scheme, impressed judges with his ability to turn his life around following a custodial sentence. Awards panel member, and daughter of Mayday’s co-founder, Kate Varah said: “The judges were so impressed with Mark’s determination to succeed despite the odds and wanted to give him this award to show him that others are proud of his achievements.”
Mark, who will soon be moving into his own flat, started work for DHL immediately after his release from prison. His employers have been so impressed with his work that he was recently put on a fast-track to management scheme. Mark’s grant will help him to study during his management training course – taking place at sites across the country. This funding will help to pay for Mark’s wireless internet connection, allowing him to study wherever he is.
Gary Smith, a former resident at Mayday Trust’s Wellingborough Scheme, has made a remarkable recovery following a breakdown. The awards panel were moved by Gary’s story and his subsequent decision to help others overcome their problems.
Gary has become the second ex-client to become a Mayday Trust employee. He has recently started work as an Apprentice Support Worker at Mayday’s Bedford Scheme, thanks to funding from the Future Jobs Fund. Chief Executive Caroline Ward said: “This is an amazing achievement for Gary. He has proved himself to be a great asset to Mayday and we all wish him every success in his new career.” Gary has been awarded £200 towards clothing and travel expenses.
Nicky Wylde was homeless before he joined Mayday’s Leighton Buzzard Scheme in early 2009. Soon after he decided to join the Conservation group, which operates in conjunction with Greensands Trust. Scheme Manager Julie Bailey said: “Nicky has been a really good resident. He has fully engaged with the service and has encouraged others to attend Conservation Group.” Nicky recently started working with Greensands for 15 hours a week. He hopes to study for a specialist chainsaw course to improve his qualifications. He has been awarded £284 to purchase protective clothing and footwear.
Martin Dyson joined Mayday’s Ashwood Court Scheme in September last year. Since then he has worked hard to address his problem with depression. Project Worker Ray Scott explained: “Martin, through hard work and perseverance has effected some major changes in his life. He has demonstrated that positive actions can gain rewards.” Martin will shortly begin a level 3 counselling skills course at Rugby College funded by Rugby Connexions. The awards panel have agreed a £120 grant to purchase books and materials for his course.
Tom Lees moved into our Wellingborough Scheme in January. He is in full time college and is working towards his GCSEs. Project Worker Grace Kague said: “Tom deserves a chance. There are a few things which are essential for youngsters of Thomas’ age that he has to manage without.” Tom has been awarded £300 to assist with studies including the purchase of a bike and insurance.
Rose Bell has been living at Mayday Trust’s Ashwood Court Scheme in Rugby for a little over a year. Her positive attitude and involvement continues to be an inspiration to others. Scheme Manager Jenny Johns said: “Rose has shown others that it is possible to overcome problems and move on to an independent life.” In Rose’s application she told of her plans to set up her own dress-making business. She has been awarded £275 to purchase a sewing machine, tailors dummy and materials.
Stephen Medforth joined Mayday’s Daventry Scheme in December 2008 before later moving to the Northampton Scheme. Before he arrived Stephen had lost his job and his home. His relationship had ended and his confidence had begun to falter. He has slowly rebuilt his self esteem and recently found full time employment with Working Links. Project Worker Amanda Hamp said: “Stephen has done incredibly well and was selected from over 20 applicants for the position. He has inspired others to believe that no matter how low they are, the possibilities are endless.”
If you'd like to find out more information please email the Communications Team or telephone us on 01788 568176
March 2010
Mayday Trust's legal team, Needham & James Solicitors, have agreed to join forces with us to enter a fundraising Dragon Boat Festival. Teams of 16 paddlers plus a drummer will race in Chinese-style Dragon Boats over a 250 metre course.
Help us raise sponsorship - Thanks to our participants for agreeing to take part. Please click on the names to enter their justgiving sponsorship pages: Nigel Banister, Amanda Bruce, Gemma Clark, David Clayton, Lyn Stacey, Caroline Ward
Support us on the day - The event will take place at St Nicholas Park, Warwick on Sunday 23 May between 10am and 4pm. We'd love you to pop along and show your support.
Caroline Ward, Mayday Trust Chief Executive, will be taking part on the day. She sends this message to would-be supporters: "When they arrive, many of our clients feel ‘worthless’ or ‘different’ and often have incredibly low opinions of themselves. With your support we can provide new opportunities, develop skills and raise self-esteem.”
Did you know??? The ‘Waking the Dragon’ ceremony is over 2000 years old and involved raising the Dragon spirits to bring good fortune and rain! True to its roots, the Warwick Dragon Boat Festival is still to raise spirits but of a very different kind by having fun and helping those who need it.
If you'd like to find out more information please email the Communications Team or telephone us on 01788 568176
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