Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2024 www.acquisition-international.com • Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2024 Featuring:
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Contents 4 The Dance Cool: Most Enriching Inclusive Dance Community 2024 - Florida 5 Toimata Foundation: Best Sustainability Educational Programmes NPO 2024 - New Zealand 6 Holding Space: Best Family Mental Health Charity 2024 - East Sussex 7 John Knox Village of Florida Foundation Inc: Best Continuing Care Retirement Community Philanthropic Foundation 2024 8 Act for Change: Most Empowering Children & Youth Intervention Charity 2024 – London 9 Kulan Somali Organisation: Enriching Youth Digital Skills Training Programme of the Year 2024 - London 10 Autism Canada: Most Dedicated Autism Support Charity 2024 - Canada 11 Project Access International: International University Access Organisation of the Year 2024 – UK & Excellence in Social Mobility Award 2024 12 UK SMART Recovery: Addiction Recovery Training Charity of the Year 2024 - UK 13 Team Evie: Best Children’s Bereavement Support Charity 2024 - North West England 14 Cosmetic Nurses Association: Cosmetic Nurses Association 2024 - Australia 15 The Opportunity Hub: Best Regional Community Development NPO 2024 - NYC 16 Youth PWR: Best Youth Empowerment Charity 2024 – London 17 Vijana Corps: Youth Empowerment NPO of the Year 2024 – Uganda 18 Peace of Mind CIO: Refugee Support Organisation of the Year 2024 - North East England 19 Uzima Women Relief Group International: Best Regional & International Marginalized Women’s Support Organization 2024 - Canada 20 Haiti Empowered: Haitian Humanitarian Education Impact Award 2024 & Sustainable Social Empowerment Excellence Award 2024 21 Pulmonary Fibrosis Trust: Pulmonary Fibrosis Trust Charity of the Year 2024 – UK 22 ENYP: Most Empowering Young People’s Development & Support Charity 2024 - East of England 23 Hope on Ttapp: HIV & Hepatitis C Testing & Support Organization of the Year 2024 - Utah 24 The Matthew Tree Project: Best Crisis Support Programme 2024 – UK & Most Innovative Social Mobility Change Model 2024 7 5 12
4 | Acquisition International, Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2024 Most Enriching Inclusive Dance Community 2024 - Florida For adults with additional needs, the severe lack of accessible activities has developed into a major problem in need of resolution. From dance classes to workshops and performances, the current landscape tends to focus its attention on children and adolescents, leaving disabled adults having to go to unnecessary lengths to pursue their passion. This gap, however, hasn’t been left to widen – thanks to the wonderful Tone Jacobsen, The Dance Cool presents additional needs adults with the chance to immerse themselves in tailor-made, specialist dance programs. Below, we explore what makes The Dance Cool distinct, and how its vision has already influenced change for the better. Contact: Tone Jacobsen Company: The Dance Cool Web Address: https://thedancecool.org/ Though many recognise that a lack of creative activities for young people with special needs can greatly inhibit how they interact in social and emotional situations, there are few who see that the same is true for additional needs adults. It’s an issue that has swept the activity sphere for decades – one that, left unattended, could very well leave disabled adults feeling isolated and abandoned. Thankfully, The Dance Cool saw what these limitations were doing to adults with additional needs and sought to cultivate a solution. This solution was none other than The Dance Cool’s development of its comprehensive and inclusive dance programs. Created with the special needs of disabled adults in mind, these programs encourage individuals of all ages and disabilities to partake in activity classes that fully support and empower them. For years, people have been recognising the benefits of the arts and cultural engagement for those with special needs, but dance has often times been sidelined. Whether this is due to collectives simply not knowing how to adapt their courses to disabled individuals or predetermined age restrictions, it’s a common issue that The Dance Cool has taken the first steps to resolve. In doing so, The Dance Cool has fostered an environment that prides itself on its inclusive empowerment and compassion. Since it first entered onto the scene, it wanted to assure additional needs adults that their voices had been heard, and that it was willing to respond with quality, tailor-made dance programs. At its heart, the organisation believes that inclusivity was a key component in developing such a highly regarded set of programs – by creating a diverse and welcoming community, The Dance Cool is able to embrace the individuality of each and every person, granting them the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in ‘the joy of dance and movement therapy’. Of course, regardless of whether you have additional needs or not, any person will tell you that attending a dance class can be somewhat intimidating. The fear of being judged by others is a universal trouble that descends upon even the most confident of people, meaning that, in order to truly uplift someone, you must first establish an environment in which they feel safe, seen, and respected. As such, The Dance Cool integrated these very factors into its programs, ensuring that, no matter the person, every additional needs adult would feel inspired and encouraged to dance their hearts out. The Non-Profit Organisation Awards is a programme that is dedicated to handpicking those who, no matter the struggles facing them, are willing to go above and beyond to make each and every person – regardless of disability – feel included. The Dance Cool is one such organisation, whose commitment to sharing its love for dance with special needs adults has played a significant role in empowering individuals across the region. As such, we’re beyond delighted to present The Dance Cool with this award title, and we can’t wait to witness its continued impact.
Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2024, Acquisition International | 5 Best Sustainability Educational Programmes NPO 2024 - New Zealand hile distinct programmes, Te Aho Tū Roa and Enviroschools share common fundamentals. Children, young people and communities are supported to connect with the whenua (land), each other and their histories. By sharing diverse ideas and collaboratively designing and taking action, participants are developing skills and hands-on experience to rethink how we live, redesign systems and be leaders in their communities. Te Aho Tu Roa is a creative, intergenerational network weaving current actions with ancestral knowledge through the medium of Māori language. A hands-on approach to learning ensures young people are engaged. Connection with the natural environment and the traditional knowledge of their ancestors, strengthens identity and belonging. Key to the approach is working in meaningful partnerships with local iwi and hapu (tribal groupings). Enviroschools is a nationwide network of early learning centres and schools committed to a sustainable future. Through Enviroschools children and young people plan, design and implement environmental projects as part of their learning. Students are transforming the look and feel of their schools and acting as catalysts for wider change in their households, neighbourhoods, on local farms, in local businesses and in all types of ecosystems. Both programmes are guided by indigenous perspectives, knowledge and wisdoms. Manaakitanga, a Māori concept encompassing caring for each other and all things in our world, is a core aspect of the learning and action. Both are facilitated by dedicated and highly skilled teams working locally alongside participants. These local roles are proven as the key success factor for the programmes. They provide participants with advice and inspiration, and link them to expertise and opportunities in their wider communities. Many outcomes emerge from Toimata’s holistic approach. Environmental outcomes include ecosystem regeneration, improved biodiversity, climate change mitigation, and waste reduction. Just as important are social and cultural outcomes. These include, increased social connections across communities, intergenerational relationships, people valuing and respecting cultural diversity, greater student engagement in learning, and communities gaining sovereignty over their kai (food), wai (water) and whenua. With the increase in destructive weather events, Toimata programmes are supporting participants in the emergency response and development of recovery skills. In a 2021 global research project, The Lancet found 59% of young people were ‘extremely worried’ about climate change. Toimata staff say that one of their most important roles is to support hope. This comment from a participant is typical; “Practical work gives me more hope for the future and combats some environmental anxiety!”. Toimata is committed to working with a large network of partners so that people of all ages can work together to take creative action, to feel empowered, motivated and hopeful - about their lives and the future of our planet. Contact: Heidi Mardon, Founder/CE Company: Toimata Foundation Web Addresses: toimata.org.nz | teahoturoa.org.nz | enviroschools.org.nz Toimata Foundation is the national hub for two networks, Te Aho Tū Roa and Enviroschools. Grounded in indigenous knowledge and a holistic action-learning approach, Toimata supports the passion and innovation of children, young people and communities to design and co-create a more sustainable, peaceful and equitable world. W
6 | Acquisition International, Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2024 Apr24647 Best Family Mental Health Charity 2024 - East Sussex hen a parent struggles with their own mental health, it can have far-reaching consequences and impact their ability to support their children. This can have a knock-on effect on the child’s health. Holding Space strives to break this vicious cycle, offering a unique brand of support that encourages resilience and reduces isolation. Building a brighter future for a family not only benefits the unit itself, but it also makes a measurable contribution to wider society, reducing the need for crisis intervention. Founded in 2019, the five years since have seen this charity support more than 1,000 families across such services as parent peer support, monthly coffee mornings, one-to-one telephone support, counselling, weekly mindfulness sessions, family art classes, and educational programmes. For those families unable to access support through schools or the NHS or are stuck on waiting lists and cannot afford private counselling sessions, Holding Space has become the first port of call and a lifeline for information and support. Collaborating closely with a number of schools, children’s services, and local/statutory organisations, the team at Holding Space is comprised of people that first and foremost are parents themselves. This positions them uniquely to be able to understand the journey that fellow parents and caregivers are on, with this lived experience benefiting the charity immeasurably. On the back of this, Holding Space’s internal structure rests on the pillars of mutual understanding and support. The services offered by Holding Space are more important now than ever before, with more and more people struggling with mental health issues and a system in place that is rapidly buckling under the weight of the demand. This is true for parents, children, and young people alike, many of whom feel alone and unsure where to turn. Although this pressure on mental health services is nothing new, it has been exacerbated by the pandemic and the subsequent cost-of-living crisis and is further impacted by the likes of social media. As a result, support for children and young people is today only available at crisis point, meaning that opportunities to intervene before things get out of control are missed. Concerningly, as Holding Space Founder Hansa Raja tells us, “in Sussex, there are currently increasing numbers of children and young people on the waiting list for intervention and in East Sussex the wait time is two to three years.” The pandemic has exacerbated this demand, and at present only 40% of children and young people who need help will access services and, when they do, often wait many months for early intervention and support. The demand for NHS Children and Young People’s Mental Health Services (CYPMHS) means that support is only available at crisis point, with many missed opportunities to intervene early. Furthermore, the number of children in contact with Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) has increased fourfold since April 2016. (British Medical Association, 2023). When combined with the growing mountain of evidence that has established a strenuous link between the mental health struggles of parents and their children’s ability to receive the consistent and supportive care they need, the importance of Holding Space’s model really shines through. It underpins the fact that addressing parental mental health concerns is as crucial for a child’s development as recognising their own, as only together can families face up to these challenges and yield positive outcomes. Even as demand for its services continues to grow exponentially, Holding Space remains committed to its belief that no child or young person should have to wait for mental health support. Hansa and her team are determined to open safe spaces in local areas across England so that parents, children, and young people have access to help right on their doorstep. To further expand its reach, the charity is seeking to partner with companies in a sponsorship and fundraising sense, as well as offering parent support through workshops run in the workplace. Recognised as the Best Family Mental Health Charity 2024 - East Sussex, Hansa has but one request for our readers that she asks on behalf of her charity: “Help us to build a future where no parent feels that they need to support their child’s mental health alone.” Contact: Hansa Raja Company: Holding Space Web Address: https://www.holdingspace.org.uk/ Charity Holding Space is devoted to offering peer support to families throughout the East Sussex area, empowering parents and carers who are facing their own emotional and mental health struggles for the good of the individual and the wider family unit, as well as specialising in children’s mental health services. Such an approach helps to foster better communication and reduces conflict and stress in the home environment, strengthening a family’s bond and ultimately improving everybody’s wellbeing. W
Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2024, Acquisition International | 7 Awards programme – through it, we’re able to award a platform to those who have championed the art of helping others. The JKV Foundation is one such entity – one that has promised to transcend the call of the duty in the pursuit of making the lives of care home residents as easy and carefree as possible. As such, we’re delighted to present the JKV Foundation with the title of Best Continuing Care Retirement Community Philanthropic Foundation 2024, and we look forward to witnessing its continued impact. Contact: Mark Dobosz Company: John Knox Village of Florida Foundation Inc Web Address: https://johnknoxvillage.com/ Best Continuing Care Retirement Community Philanthropic Foundation 2024 Since its inception, the JKV Foundation has had one core goal in mind – to guarantee that John Know Village’s retirement residents have the best golden years imaginable. Centring its focus on the physical, emotional, spiritual, environmental, philanthropic, and occupational areas of wellness in particular, the foundation brings together a range of like minded individuals to build upon the lifestyle of the wider community. It achieves such a feat through the effective acquisition and stewardship of contributions from residents and members of the community alike, further using these charitable funds to support a range of initiatives carried out by the village. In fact, the JKV Foundation has become an integral part of the John Knox Village community, with its selfless contributions alleviating any and all strain affecting the home and its residents. This comes as a direct result of the JKV Foundation’s status as a facilitator of philanthropy – a position that encourages it to identify the invaluable role donors play in the larger philanthropic process. Instrumental in driving social change, supporting causes they genuinely care about, and shaping the overall trajectory of philanthropy, donors are essential, and the JKV Foundation is committed to ensuring that their needs are put first. Only by prioritising donor stewardship, engagement, and satisfaction can one cultivate trusting relationships with them, and the JKV Foundation has spent its tenure focusing on these very aspects. When donors are happy, so too are residents – it’s all interconnected, with the JKV Foundation at the heart of keeping it all running. Where some may buckle from the pressure, this particular foundation instead flourishes. It takes great pride in what it does, and understands that its work is having a real impact on the lives of real people – people who truly deserve to have the very best in life, regardless of how long they have already lived. However, if we were to highlight the JKV Foundation’s most notable contribution, it would have to be its impactful Benevolence Program. Aimed at delivering support and assistance to residents struggling with financial challenges, this program ensures that individuals can continue to live comfortably and securely within the community, regardless of whether their financial circumstances suddenly change. Whether it’s helping with monthly fees, granting access to community resources, or offering support services to help residents navigate their situations with dignity and peace of mind, the Benevolence Program has guided many an older adult through tough monetary moments. Here at Acquisition International, we are always seeking out talented collectives that boast both compassion and selflessness in abundance. It’s for this reason that we host our annual Non-Profit Organisation Created to greatly elevate the experience of those residing in John Knox Village, the John Knox Village Foundation (JKV Foundation) specialises in identifying how to guarantee the future wellbeing of the community and making it happen. Primarily focused on funding and supporting programmes, services, and spaces that explore eight key areas of wellness, the foundation has become a key part of enhancing John Knox Village residents’ golden years. Below, we venture into how the JKV Foundation goes above and beyond to cater to the health, wellness, and overall happiness of the older adult population. John Knox Village of Florida Foundation Inc
8 | Acquisition International, Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2024 Most Empowering Children & Youth Intervention Charity 2024 – London The mission at Act for Change isn’t simply helping families and children with trauma. It’s about demonstrating deep empathy and interest in an individual’s circumstance, and understanding struggle within its context. The team knows that trauma is a systemic issue which ripples through families and communities, and that a systemic issue needs a systemic solution - and plenty of empathy. Which is why the AFC expertise is rooted in multi-agency collaboration. Contact: Lea Misan, Founder & CEO Company: Act for Change Web Address: www.actforchange.org.uk Communities are often wary of social services, especially those geared towards improving mental health, and there are many good reasons for that. There is a pervasive feeling among at-risk children and their families that they won’t be truly understood, or that their circumstances won’t be properly considered. Many organisations may act in a way that isn’t Trauma-informed, for instance, labelling young people as “offenders” or “troublesome,” ultimately showing a lack of knowledge about how affecting these labels are. Act for Change looks beyond one individual when trying to heal trauma. Through improving the environments and relationship qualities, we can drive preventative measures and reduce the need for crisis intervention. Crucially, when crisis intervention is necessary, AFC strives to intervene at the right time, with the right voice and the right approach for each individual case. The principle at the heart of this work is that Every. Child. Matters. The organisation provides crisis intervention across London boroughs, along with counselling, mentoring, intervention training, and extended programmes. These services are provided around people’s lives and routines, so it all takes place in convenient locations with minimal day-to-day disruption. In particular, Act For Change takes pride in enhancing the lives of those in minority groups, who traditionally show suspicion towards these services. The goal is to break down barriers by showing a unique understanding to match unique circumstances. Structural discrimination harms the intervention process, so the team accepts every individual within their developmental, cultural, and societal context. Racism, poverty, and non-binary gender bias are all determinants of violence. When we leave these out when we look at why violence happens, and why some people are being excluded, we notice that isolation is further amplified when experiences are not heard or acknowledged. Understanding context also means working in a way that’s trauma informed. During intervention stages, Act for Change is interested in the root causes of concerning behaviour. When organisations such as the police, schools, or social services label children as problematic, without adapting to their trauma and individual experiences, the effects are far-reaching. These children are more likely to re-offend and experience further trauma, and it fosters distrust between authorities and the families they try to help. The AFC approach emphasises changing the system within which young people develop. It aims to hear voices of all kinds and intervene at every crucial point, be it parents, teachers, community, and even within the justice system. This means that change is effected in the right places through targeted interventions, creating a support network which shares the responsibility, restores trust, and stewards young people through challenging times. We believe in upskilling and equipping local communities to continue the work, achieve sustainable change and a better future where young people they can thrive, not just survive. The organisation is formed of those who care, seeking those with empathy, approachability, and charisma. It sees those who embody the trauma-informed approach as the perfect ambassadors for its mission. As a small, rapidly expanding team, it relies on dynamic individuals who share the organisation’s goals and are motivated to positively impact young people, families, and the systems they inhabit. Though recruitment is a current challenge for the organisation, it’s taking this in its stride, and is preparing to broaden its scope. This means constant improvements to its CRM system and overall infrastructure while maintaining a nimble, adaptable offering to meet community challenges as and where they present. Fundraising plays a crucial role in this, be it through the launch of its founder’s book – The Tribe Within – the sponsored Run for Change events, or Arts for Change workshops. Act for Change is committed to bettering the environments, systems, and communities that children grow up in. The team is passionate about nurturing the development of young people in safe environments, free from adversity and is all about providing a service tailored to their unique contexts and needs. London youth interventions are evolving thanks to the organisation’s vision for a better future and true, across-theboard empathy for youth-at-risk. Act for Change act forchange “ “ ” ”
Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2024, Acquisition International | 9 Enriching Youth Digital Skills Training Programme of the Year 2024 - London SO is derived from the traditional Somali saying ‘Gacmo wadajir bay wax ku qabtaan’ which translates as ‘United effort leads to success’. Through strategic partnerships with local community groups and volunteers, KSO strives to foster resilience, independence, and equality within BAME communities. With a focus on Somali families and individuals living in London, the charity is committed to providing life-enhancing, sustainable solutions to social challenges. The charity offers a wide range of services to address the challenges faced by community members, including housing, benefits, immigration, women’s empowerment, employment, access to food banks, and much more. KSO offers confidential and person-centred support face to face or online through workshops, support groups, community empowerment programmes, and events. Its programmes aim to strengthen communities and provide up-to-date information on welfare benefits, social housing, utilities, employment, and digital literacy. Through its engaging youth programmes, KSO offers digital skills development training and employment-focused initiatives to help young people become active citizens. Furthermore, the charity runs women’s programmes, enhancing the overall wellbeing of Somali women with employment services and mindfulness classes. At KSO, the team understands the importance of empowering its members to make informed decisions about issues affecting their lives. KSO embraces diversity and inclusion to ensure that its services are both accessible and responsive to the evolving needs of its community members, regardless of their background or individual circumstances. The pioneering charity is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of transparency and integrity throughout its operations in order to maintain the confidence of the people it serves. Driven by values of compassion, empowerment, and collaboration, the team leverage their collective strengths and expertise to deliver transformative services to diverse communities. KSO seeks volunteers who embody its values and demonstrate qualities of empathy, adaptability, and effective communication. The charity’s purpose-driven culture is characterised by mutual respect and team work which supports the charity’s mission and maximise its impact. By fostering a positive and inclusive work environment, KSO attracts talented individuals who are committed to the cause, ultimately enhancing KSO’s ability to create lasting change. As a non-profit organisation, KSO faces various challenges such as the rise in digital transformation, resource constraints, and advocacy and policy changes. The non-profit sector often lags behind in digital technology implementation, which can be disruptive to organisations’ charitable efforts. KSO understands the importance of digitalisation and has embraced digital technologies to streamline its operations and improve service delivery. This has involved implementing online platforms for remote assistance, creating virtual events for fundraising and community engagement, and utilising digital tools for data management and analysis. To address resource constraints, KSO continues to diversify its funding sources and pursue grant opportunities, which enable the charity to secure the resources necessary to meet the growing demands for its services. Additionally, the KSO team engages in advocacy efforts and mobilises support from stakeholders to address systemic issues. By collaborating with policymakers and advocacy groups, the charity strives to promote policies that will benefit communities and make a positive impact on individuals’ lives. Rhoda Saeed, KSO’s Chair, shares, “As a charity organisation, we recognise the importance of minimising our environmental footprint and promoting eco-friendly practices in our operations and programs. This may include initiatives such as reducing waste, conserving energy and natural resources, promoting sustainable transportation options, and integrating environmental education and awareness into our community outreach efforts. By incorporating sustainability principles into our work, we aim to contribute to a healthier and more resilient community for current and future generations.” With its emphasis on innovation, scalability, and sustainability, KSO is well positioned to support and empower individuals and families in need. By working collaboratively with other non-profit organisations, government agencies, and community groups, KSO leverages its resources and expertise to tackle complex social challenges and achieve a greater impact on BAME communities. Above all, the charity is passionate about amplifying the voices of those it serves and working together in a united effort to create lasting change. We are pleased to announce Kulan Somali Organisation as the deserving winner of our award for Enriching Youth Digital Skills Training Programme of the Year 2024 – London. Company: Kulan Somali Organisation Web Address: www.kulankso.org KSO (Kulan Somali Organisation) is a charity dedicated to providing holistic support to individuals and families in need. Established in 2002, KSO strives to improve the lives of BAME groups, particularly Somali and Bravanese communities, in the UK. Through its inspiring work, the charity empowers communities with the necessary resources, guidance, and support to overcome obstacles and build better lives. K
10 | Acquisition International, Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2024 Apr24575 Most Dedicated Autism Support Charity 2024 - Canada o matter what your preconceptions about autism may be, each individual person, regardless of how their mind works, is a valuable part of society and deserves to be treated with the same dignity. Their ability to involve themselves in social and civic life should be respected, and determined to advocate for this very notion every day is none other than Autism Canada. Frontrunner in the pursuit of a higher level of acceptance for autistic people, this award-wining organisation has committed itself to the support of autistic individuals, their families, and their caregivers all throughout Canada. By prioritizing individuals through meaningful education, advocacy, and support-based programming, Autism Canada has quickly become the nation’s most trusted charitable entity. This success is driven by individuals who, by leveraging their own unique forms of compassion and empathy, have played a critical role in helping the organisation devise programs and approaches. Empowering the autistic community begins with establishing a strong community of one’s own, and the one that Autism Canada has fostered is nothing short of exemplary. What truly distinguishes Autism Canada from other autism support charities is its commitment to doing more than simply advocating on behalf of the autistic community. Recognizing that it can be challenging to understand a demographic’s needs without experiencing these requirements first-hand, Autism Canada has ensured neurodivergent individuals are represented on its board. In doing so, it’s cultivated a board of directors comprised of roughly 50% of neurodivergent individuals, with this number constantly increasing. Furthermore, the organisation is entirely led by individuals on the spectrum. This unique leadership structure enables Autism Canada to address the specific needs of all types of autism in an unprecedented manner. As the awareness of autism’s vast spectrum continues to grow, more people are turning to those who have extensive knowledge of the condition. Autism Canada is one such organization – a collective of individuals dedicated to adapting and evolving to meet the everchanging needs of the community. In 2024, Autism Canada is set to launch its Community Assistance Program, a fund designed to subsidise the cost of assessment, respite, occupational, and other support services. The initiative aims to significantly reduce the waiting times for autistic people seeking support, allowing them to thrive more quickly than ever before. Autism is a complex condition that we may never truly understand, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try, or support those who need a little extra help from time to time. Autism Canada promises to be just that – a non-profit organisation that, despite the challenges inherent in its work, has never wavered in its pursuit of helping autistic individuals achieve their dreams. This unwavering dedication has earned Autism Canada the recognition of Acquisition International, and we’re delighted to feature it in the 2024 Non-Profit Organisation Awards. We hope this recognition helps to elevate Autism Canada’s efforts to ensure every autistic individual feels seen, heard, and supported. Contact: Jamie McCleary Company: Autism Canada Web Address: https://www.autismcanada.org/ For far too long, the world has held a narrow view of what autism is. However, as we’ve entered the digital era, more autistic individuals have come forward to share the truth about autism – that it’s a complex condition affecting each person differently. While this discussion has prompted many organisations to reconsider whether they are adequately supporting their autistic clients, one organization that has never doubted its abilities, is Autism Canada. This exceptional autism support charity has been wholeheartedly dedicated to meeting the needs of all types of autistic people across Canada, since its creation in 1976. N See The Spectrum Differently Le spectre autrement
Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2024, Acquisition International | 11 and always considered, as the team acknowledges the passion that members have for equality in education. Many previous mentees go on to mentor others, sustaining a volunteer base of those which has a unique understanding of the problems it’s helping underprivileged students to overcome. “By joining us, mentors and team members become part of a global network of like-minded young people dedicated to making a difference in the world.” Project Access’s success speaks to the purpose of its team and mentors, demonstrating the power of a shared vision. However, as a non-profit organisation, it’s on the lookout for ways to diversify its funds, seeking support from those who align with its values and find donators with a particular interest in educational charities. Between the search for interested partners and less data than the team would like to reach new target demographics, the team is always pursuing new avenues for development. In the first quarter of 2024, Project Access partnered with languagelearning app EF Hello, Save My Exams, and TutorHive to offer useful resources. Mentees enjoy a suite of tools to enhance their linguistic skills and an improved offering of revision materials. Project Access enjoys partnering with organisations which are enthusiastic about education and eager to empower students with chances they may not otherwise get. Project Access is a leading example of a non-profit that works strictly according to its goals. Its passionate team and volunteer base are driven by the desire to truly make a difference in education. Through its mentorship programme, entry to the upper echelons of education is afforded to many talented young people who may have struggled otherwise. Here’s to upward social mobility and more inspiring work in the years to come. Contact: Jakob Petersen Company: Project Access International Web Address: www.projectaccess.org International University Access Organisation of the Year 2024 – UK & Excellence in Social Mobility Award 2024 Since 2016, Project Access has supported students aspiring to toptier higher education whose chances are hindered by factors outside their control. The most recent numbers reveal a concerning truth that’s been evident for years: that students from an economically advantaged background are significantly more likely to attend prestigious universities than those from lower-income households, and the problem is worsening. “Research in the US found that students from the top 1% of the income distribution are 77 times more likely to attend an Ivy League school than those in the bottom 20%. In the same vein, the most advantaged high school students in the UK are 15 times more likely to gain admission to a top university than the most disadvantaged – a number that continues to rise. ” Project Access strives to equalise opportunity between students from high and lower-income households. It achieves this by pairing student mentors from top institutions throughout the US, UK, and EU with disadvantaged students who aspire to attend them. It seeks eligible, promising students for mentorship, during which they’ll receive personalised guidance through the university application process. Mentees are shown how to market themselves and their interests, shown funding options, and so much more. Crucially, this is all free of cost to mentees. The project currently has over 5,000 active mentors and an impressive record of over 75% mentee success. The numbers are inspiring, especially considering that mentors are all student volunteers who donate their time to provide pivotal support to those in need. Team members are interviewed for their cultural fit, skillsets and interests to ensure that we gather the best community of passionate young people globally for the programme to run smoothly and also thrive The internal culture of Project Access reflects the compassion and open-mindedness behind its mission. Ideas and input are encouraged Project Access is on a mission to fight educational inequality, and it’s making remarkable progress. It bridges the gap between talented, underprivileged students and entry to their desired university. The team recognises that academic ability is dispersed among those both with and without means, and it aims to equip aspiring students with the chance to thrive that they deserve. Project Access International
12 | Acquisition International, Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2024 Addiction Recovery Training Charity of the Year 2024 - UK Dr Charlie Orton asserts that addiction is the most stigmatised thing in society today, more so than any mental health condition or disease. This is why she serves in a chief executive position at UK SMART Recovery. It is a National charity that supports people overcoming any form of addiction through an empowering, evidence-based programme consisting of cognitive behavioural therapy, rational emotive behaviour, and motivational interviewing tools and techniques. Offering people a choice in their recovery pathway, this recovery programme is for people aged 13 and above, either as a whole or as part of a brief intervention, this addiction charity’s commitment is unwavering. Contact: Dr Charlie Orton Company: UK SMART Recovery Web Address: https://smartrecovery.org.uk/ Utilising SMART Recovery’s Four-Point Programme, which helps people to build and maintain motivation; cope with urges and cravings; manage thoughts, behaviours, and feelings; and in turn live a balanced life. UK SMART Recovery is a not-for-profit business and provides its services via a number of different routes. These include the likes of the NHS’ addiction services, other charities, residential facilities, and prisons, as well as the charity’s own team and volunteers, who hold group sessions for members of the community. SMART Recovery can provide business owners with an affordable readymade solution that includes training for line managers and HR personnel and a confidential pathway for employees whose lives have become unbalanced. It is estimated that in the UK some 5000 people access this programme every week, and more than 650 people a year become facilitators to deliver it. Facilitators are a mixture of mental health, addiction, and psychiatry professionals and fellow peers, the 13 employed staff, 140 volunteers, and 300 additional partner volunteers comprising this operation undertake a phenomenal amount of work. This is not to mention our tailored programmes for Family and Friends and Veterans, which have their own additional training modules. These numbers may seem impressive, but this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the charity seeking to help people right across the UK. The harsh truth is most people will either face addiction in their lifetime or know someone that will, but the taboo nature of the subject makes it difficult for this nonprofit organisation to fundraise via donations or to receive philanthropy in the same way that regular charities do. To survive, UK SMART Recovery is reliant on services and businesses commissioning its programmes, so that it can offer them for free at the point of care. In a society currently struggling with the cost of living, the charity has been forced to diversify its income streams, and so has started to create tailored partnerships. By building bespoke packages and tailoring its programmes to the needs of veterans and the LGBTQIA+ community alike, the team here are refusing to remain static, as they know that continually addressing the needs of society is how a charity like this will grow. By keeping costs low, branching out, and pushing forwards, UK SMART Recovery can operate within tight margins and achieve financial stability. Doubling down on both its need to expand and pledge to aid those in need, UK SMART Recovery helps business owners to support their employees by recognising the importance of living a balanced life. Whilst this may not directly link to addiction, these confidential and anonymous solutions emphasise the importance of making good decisions and the consequences of bad ones, such as maintaining a good work-life balance and avoiding the work hard, play hard lifestyle that is often romanticised across media. Working remotely in their respective areas, the team here support each other when the going gets tough, with this lending itself to a culture of trust and respect that runs throughout this non-profit organisation. Everybody on the trustee board is a dedicated volunteer, and the same enthusiasm for work is sought out when it comes to all of its people. They must all have a balanced life and live by their own hierarchy of values. In addition to the team, UK SMART Recovery also has its own ambassador, DJ Brandon Block, who has faced his own well-publicised struggles with substance abuse. Turning his life around with help from the programme, Brandon has been a SMART facilitator since 2005. They are now seeking an additional ambassador for the brand, a patron or philanthropist passionate about the cause who wants to help it grow, so that it may help as many people, as well as their family and friends, access free, self-help and/or mutual aid support. As we name UK SMART Recovery as the Addiction Recovery Training Charity of the Year 2024 – UK, we implore anybody who may wish to contribute to this remarkable cause to visit the link here to find out more about how to do so, and support this terrific nonprofit organisation in achieving its selfless goal. If you are a business owner interesting in hearing more about how SMART Recovery can support your staff wellbeing strategy, please do get in touch.
Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2024, Acquisition International | 13 Best Children’s Bereavement Support Charity 2024 - North West England eam Evie was created in the name of Evie Johnson, an inspiring little girl who sadly passed in 2015 at only 6 months ago. Evie spent the majority of her life in hospital, having been diagnosed with multiple, complex cardiac, respiratory, and digestive problems. Despite 14 operations and the best possible care, Evie sadly passed on Sunday 27th September in the arms of her loving parents. Throughout Evie’s life, Greg kept family and friends updated on her progress through Facebook and as a result, Evie amassed a large following of well-wishers. Evie’s influence spread around the world with many people sending love, hope, and support. Based on the greeting that a consultant gave the family each morning, Team Evie was born. Greg and Jill created Team Evie to help sick children and families who face similar challenges to those that their family endured during Evie’s short life. The charity’s support begins from diagnosis in pregnancy and continues through birth, time in hospital, caring for sick children at home, and bereavement support. Greg Johnston shares, “We provide many donations and develop and deliver projects alongside medical professionals from 20 different wards and teams across our region. These projects save children’s lives, make time in hospital easier for families, and reduce anxiety for all the family. We also support the work of the medical professional by purchasing medical equipment and delivering crucial training to help improve practice.” Since its inception, Team Evie has raised over a half a million pounds which the charity has used to help buy physiotherapy equipment, sensory equipment, respite retreats for bereaved families, comfort items, portable libraries, and much more. Team Evie is involved in many regional and national bodies to help improve the level of support for families and continues to campaign for improved care for bereaved families. With its Peer Support service, Team Evie provides one-on-one support to parents who experience the death of a child, time in hospital, difficult pregnancies, and more. This rewarding service links parents with trained Peer Supporters, who have had similar experiences, providing with assistance that goes beyond the duties of medical professionals. Over the years, Team Evie has built strong relationships with hospitals and medical teams, which has been key to the charity’s success. Greg and Jill have helped countless sick children and families across Cumbria, which would not have been possible without the knowledge and experience of those on the front line. Direction from medical teams and professionals has enabled the charity to spend its funds wisely and have the greatest impact on those in need. Greg Johnston says, “As the work we do is in Evie’s name, we are always driven by her inspiration to do our best and help as many people as we can. When Evie was in hospital our motto was ‘Always Moving Forwards’ as every day we ensured she made progress. This is now the charity’s motto, and we live by it each day, aiming to improve what we do, and how we support families in need. It has helped us to make huge progress in the first nine years we have been in operation!” Over 2024, it is Team Evie’s mission to fully establish and grow its Peer Support service, which has been a rewarding challenge for the team. Looking to the future, the charity is passionate about creating its own Respite Retreat, which will be a multi-purpose space and cottage for bereaved families to use in the aftermath of a child’s death. The multipurpose space will be ideal for Peer Support groups, one-to-ones, Special Baby Groups, and more. At Team Evie, Greg, Jill, and their army of volunteers strive to support families throughout their journey from the moment a child becomes ill to bringing them home. For parents whose child sadly passes away, Team Evie offers a range of bereavement support services in memory of Evie, an incredible little girl who was with us too short a time. For its invaluable charitable work, Team Evie has received this year’s award for Best Children’s Bereavement Support Charity - North West England. Company: Team Evie Email Address: [email protected] Web Address: www.teamevie.org In memory of their daughter Evie, Greg and Jill Johnston founded Team Evie in 2017 to provide sick children and their families with life-changing support. With the ongoing support of individuals and businesses, the charity is currently supporting 20 different wards and medical teams in North East England and Cumbria. Team Evie has raised over £750,000 so far and is passionate about helping as many children and families as possible through fundraising, donations, and engaging charity events. T
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