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ACVO News December 2024

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Sep 26, 2024

Instant Neighbour Celebrates 40 Years of Community Support with a £40,000 Fundraising Goal

This year marks a significant milestone for Instant Neighbour, celebrating 40 years of unwavering support for the local community. To commemorate this remarkable achievement, Instant Neighbour is on a mission to raise £40,000 for 40 years of service!

Since its inception, Instant Neighbour has been dedicated to supporting individuals and families in Aberdeen City and Shire, particularly those on low incomes. The organisation provides access to affordable, reused furniture, white goods, clothing and various household items through their shops. Their services extend to Carpetinc and Joinerinc, offering professional services accessible to everyone in the community.

In addition to their retail and service offerings, Instant Neighbour plays a crucial role in enhancing employability. They provide volunteering opportunities in their shops, warehouse, vans and office, helping individuals gain valuable work experience. Profits generated from these initiatives are reinvested into the organisation to further their charitable endeavours.

Instant Neighbour’s journey began in 1984, spearheaded by Reverend Mike Mair of Holburn West Church. He recognised the growing levels of poverty in Aberdeen and launched Instant Neighbour as a youth unemployment scheme. The initiative aimed to help young unemployed individuals gain work experience while assisting the most vulnerable in society with everyday tasks. It was a community-driven project designed to foster community spirit and provide essential support to those in need.

Over the past four decades, Instant Neighbour has continuously evolved to meet the changing needs of society. However, their core mission has remained steadfast: to alleviate poverty and support the most vulnerable members of the community.

To mark this momentous anniversary, Instant Neighbour is calling on individuals and organisations to join their fundraising efforts. The community’s support through fundraising activities is vital to the continuation of their essential work. One of the key events in their fundraising campaign is a Fundraising Dinner, scheduled for Saturday, 23rd November. Sponsorship packages for this event are available for purchase, providing an excellent opportunity for local businesses and individuals to contribute to a worthy cause.

“We are incredibly proud to celebrate 40 years of service to the Aberdeen community,” said Sophy Green, CEO of Instant Neighbour. “Our success has been built on the amazing support from the public, and we are counting on that same spirit of generosity to help us reach our £40,000 goal. Whether through participating in fundraising activities, attending our Fundraising Dinner, or purchasing sponsorship packages, every contribution makes a significant difference. Together, we can continue to support those who need it most.”

Instant Neighbour extends heartfelt thanks to the public for their continued support over the years and looks forward to celebrating this milestone together. With the community’s help, they aim to make a significant impact and continue their mission for many years to come.

For more information on how to get involved or to purchase sponsorship packages for the Fundraising Dinner, please visit instantneighbour.co.uk/our-40th-anniversary-fundraising-dinner/

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