Great ways to give 3

Bring your bear

Let me start by declaring an interest. I spend quite a bit of my spare time on the local fundraising committee for this charity. How did this come about? I had supported various charity fundraising events locally over the years but was surprised to be invited to join a committee. The approach came at just the right time as the kids had flown and I was left with an empty nest. What to do with my 'spare' time was something I had been stressing about. Obviously, I looked into what this charity actually DID. 

I was surprised, to say the least. However, apart from being a soft touch when it comes to kids, I thought that it wasn't really personal so if I asked somebody to help in any way and they refused, that would be it. My Mum suffered from dementia and I knew if I helped them, I would take a refusal very personally - as if the help had been directly refused to her. HOWEVER, in a very short space of time that proved not to be the case. If you know anyone who was given the polio vaccine - say thank you to Action, they funded  pioneering work on this; if you know anyone who has taken folic acid whilst pregnant - say thank you to Action for their financial contribution; an ultrasound scan in pregnancy? used a fetal heart monitor? ever heard of the Glasgow coma scale? they have even funded research to determine when to start milk feeds for sick premature babies.

So ... you get it?
It IS personal ... and not just to me -
they've made a difference in your life as well although you probably didn't know

This fundraiser is primarily aimed at children but you can join in too at your workplace because, go on, admit it - you DO have a favourite bear and it's fun!
All you have to do is visit the registration page on the Action Medical Research website and sign up. Then you nominate a day to take your bear in to work with you. It costs £2.00 per bear.
And that's it! Simple!

This is the link  http://www.action.org.uk/get_involved/bring_your_bear

and while you're there, why not take a look around the site to see what they do with the money they raise. 

[I never cease to be amazed at how much difference just a small amount can help]. Also, you may find a challenge that appeals.

What's all this got to do with wedding? Well you may just think that it's such a worthwhile cause you'd like your guests to bring a bear to your reception party and donate the appropriate amount of money instead of providing guest favours. If you're having an outdoor reception, what about a Teddy Bear's Picnic for your little guests? 

Go on ... do it today ... make a difference and feel good