A Douglas investment company is to continue its support for a local charity which helps with independent living skills and educational needs for young people with learning difficulties.
Nedgroup Investments has announced that it will carry on supporting SKILS (Skills for Independent Living Scheme) throughout the coming year
“The charity is highly motivated and active and our staff have really enjoyed being involved in their various fund raising activities,” said Nedgroup Investments managing director Andrew Lodge. “We are delighted to continue our support for SKILS in to 2012.”
SKILS was founded by Georgie Revill of Bride based on her own personal experience of having a son with autism and finding that the Isle of Man’s education system offers only very limited assistance for such young people between the ages of 18 and 25.
“These students want to achieve in life – they are motivated and wish to become independent and reach their full potential, so we are campaigning for investment in their education and life skills as sadly the alternative could be lack of self worth, ending up in a care home and being a burden on society. It is imperative that we invest now for their future,” she said.
“The five student boys currently at Myerscough College in Preston are now on their second year where they have made remarkable progress.
They are the only full time residential students with special needs amongst a residential peer group of 675. They are integrating, learning valuable life lessons, gaining vocational and work experience skills all at the same time. Most importantly they are happy and fulfilled. SKILS is determined to assist other prospective Manx students attain the same experience”.
Nedgroup’s involvement with SKILS has included placing a senior staff member on the charity’s board of trustees, the funding of PowerPoint training for promotional purposes and the sponsorship, in conjunction with Bridson & Horrox, of printed banners, promotional posters, leaflets and stationery.
The company has also taken part in a number of fund raising events to benefit SKILS directly, including the Parish Walk, a Slipper and Cakes Day, a bingo night, the donation of Christmas cards money and another donation to the charity from all staff, instead of their usual ‘Secret Santa’ event.
During February Nedgroup staff will also be raising funds for the charity with another bingo night and a bag pack at Shoprite.
“I have to say that I am eternally grateful to Nedgroup – they provide me with constant support,” said Georgie Revill. “It’s not just about fund raising, which actually they do very successfully, it’s more the mentoring, providing encouragement and enthusiasm. I honestly believe that they are as passionate about the cause as I am.”
“I am delighted that Nedgroup are continuing their ongoing support for SKILS this year. It’s great news for the charity and obviously for those who will benefit from its existence”.
