Meerkats up for grabs in the tombola proved a ‘simples’ way for Junior Achievement Isle of Man to attract interest at Christmas fairs at Cronk-y-Berry and Marown primary schools and raise nearly ?300. The events not only helped raise money but also provided an opportunity to recruit volunteers for the Manx-registered charity dedicated to helping the island’s young people gain essential skills for when they leave full-time education. Development officer Tina Edge said: ‘Both fairs were a great success. We are also going to be at the Christmas market at the Onchan Youth and Community Centre on December 15 and will have a stall at Shoprite, Chester Street, Douglas on December 21. We’re also contacting local businesses, inviting their staff to donate any unwanted Christmas presents to Junior Achievement, so we can use them as raffle prizes for future events. ‘Fundraising is vitally important as we need to raise ?300,000 annually to reach more than 4000 students. We’re also looking to recruit more volunteers to help deliver Junior Achievement programmes as our goal is to reach all 12,000 students in full-time education in the Isle of Man.’ Mrs Edge explained that the programmes were designed to help students increase their self esteem and confidence; learn how to manage their finances; develop team-working skills; understand how the world of business works and how to transfer the skills learnt in education into their life once they finish school. She also reported that the charity was now registered at easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/jaiom, a free fundraising service through which people can raise funds for Junior Achievement Isle of Man when shopping online. Additionally, February 11 2011 will see Take That 2, billed as ‘the UK’s number one Take That tribute band’ perform at the Gaiety Theatre, with all proceeds from the event, sponsored by OSA Recruitment and supported by 3FM, going to Junior Achievement Isle of Man. Tickets are ?20 each, on sale at www.villagaiety.com, the Welcome Centre at the Sea Terminal and at the Villa Marina box office. To help support the work of Junior Achievement Isle of Man, call Tina Edge on 666266 or email tina@jaiom.im. Junior Achievement Isle of Man, Suite 2, Peterson House, Middle River, Douglas. www.jaiom.im Ends