An introduction by Jill Stanford
The Benfleet group was formed in 1977. Shortly after, we opened a charity shop which was, and still is, its main source of income. The shop provides a service to the community and is a very good way to publicise the work of UNICEF and recruit more volunteers for fundraising. After 30 years, the group decided to expand its operations and opened a second shop in Hadleigh in Essex. Since the "Second Time Around Boutique" opened its doors in October 2008 it has been a success and continues to go from strength to strength.
In 1997 we received the UNICEF National Award, having raised £200,000 in twenty years. Since then we have raised a further £100,000. We raise money for both specific disasters and projects as well as for general funds. Fundraising events which we hold regularly include quizzes, barbecues, musical evenings, coffee mornings, street collections and restaurant meals.
We are a friendly group with around 40 volunteers. We would welcome more support, especially from younger people, both in the shops and on the fundraising committee which oversees the shops and organises other events.
If you would like more information about any of the groups in England or would like to set up your own, please email groups@unicef.org.uk or phone 020 7375 6110 for further information. New members are always welcome.
