On this page we thought you may be interested in seeing which charities have provided speakers and to provide links to their websites. Many of these are local and it is surprising to see the range of good causes supported by people from our area. If you click on the appropriate link below you will be taken to the charity's website.
Lepra. An internationally respected charity working across several countries to support research into the treatment of leprosy. They also work in each country to help those with leprosy and their families to maintain as normal a life as may be possible. Lepra is local and based in Colchester.
Pioneer Sailing Trust. This charity was set up to restore the derelict sailing smack, Pioneer, which is now sailing in our local waters providing a variety of opportunities for young people. The trust also provides apprenticeships and is involved with other restoration projects.
Porridge and Pens. One young Brightlingsea girl started this charity to help provide education and nutrition in Ghana. It has grown into a charity which has built its own school and provided educational opportunities for many young people, especially girls, as well as nutrition.
Essex and Herts Air Ambulance Trust provides much needed emergency support across two counties. The helicopter is seen flying into Brightlingsea regularly and is a much needed service helping to save lives.
Essex Voluntary Blood Service, also known as The Blood Runners, is an independent organisation that operates with volunteer riders and drivers delivering blood, plasma and other urgently required items across Essex. They give not only their time but with no remuneration from the charity, they are responsible for their own costs in delivering this essential work.
The Shipwrecked Mariners' Society, a less well known charity than RNLI but our speaker explained how these two had evolved as separate charities but working closely together. The Red mine by the hard is their collection point in Brightlinhgsea and funds raised help support mariners and fishermen in need of help.
Great Ormond St Hospital (GOSH) Our speaker gave an excellent talk on the activities of the hospital since it was founded. GOSH is part NHS funded and part voluntary contributions so fund raising is a major challenge for the charity and the Ambassadors giving talks. A great and inspiring afternoon.