March 2023 Newsletter

25/08/2023

In this uncertain and ever changing world, the power of animal companionship is never more needed. It provides security, connection to nature and our communities; and for many is the reason they are coping. We continue to develop and provide our animal companionship support services and thank everyone, particularly our volunteers and supporters for making our compassionate, community outreach possible. We have many stories to tell.

We have published our Annual Report for 2021-2022. Please read our Annual Report here for a glimpse of our work.

It has been a busy time in the OSF office, with two new members joining the permanent office team.

Séamus Connolly – Charity Manager

Séamus joined OSF with over 25 years commercial and third sector experience with over 10 years in senior leadership roles. Séamus will work across the charity with a focus on building operational resilience, income generation, sustainability and strategic projects.

Trudi McManus – Office Coordinator

Trudi has recently moved back to Ely from Ipswich which was fortuitous for OSF, allowing her to join us in the role of Office Coordinator. She previously worked in the NHS as a Senior Medical Secretary and has volunteered with the Blue Cross and the RSPCA in her free time.

Trudie smiling and cuddling her rescue dog Darcie — Trudi - Office Coordinator

In 2021 we were thrilled to be asked to match with Sudbury Pets at Home as their Community Partner. As their chosen charity, we have been able to share donated food products with clients facing financial stress by linking with the local Foodbank Charity Boomerang. We have also had an in-store presence, including the Christmas Appeal, where we jointly fundraised £1,000.

A huge thank you to our volunteers who gave their time to be in the store, attract new volunteers, raise funds, and spread our message. We are pleased to share the news that we will continue to be Sudbury’s Community Partners this year too.

A collage of three photos of OSF volunteers at Pets at Home — Some of our volunteers fundraising at Sudbury Pets at Home

An amazing £3,060 was raised for OSF by Siam, Mandy, Heaven and Emma. Mandy, Heaven and Emma bravely shaved their heads to raise funds for OSF, with Siam organising the event and a very successful raffle. Their story has been featured in the local newspapers.

We are so grateful for their wonderful fundraising efforts and raising awareness of the work that OSF do. Thank you Siam, Heaven, Mandy, Emma and everyone who donated!

Fundraising event Brave the shave for OSF — Siam, Mandy, Heaven and Emma braving the shave to raise funds for Our Special Friends

You can read our full March 2023 Newsletter here.