Award gives recognition to Whitby Children’s charity
Thursday 2nd March
The High Sheriff of North Yorkshire, award-winning businessman, Mr James S Lambert Esq OBE, visited WHISH at their centre in Whitby,
The High Sheriff toured the facilities, including the multi-sensory Centre, met Trustees and volunteers. He chatted to local parents who use the facilities and services with their children, hearing what a difference WHISH has made to their lives.
He praised the incredible dedication of WHISH volunteers, and made special mentions of Brenda Lyth and Cheryl Newton, who had been a part of the original voluntary group in 2008 and were still actively supporting the charity as Trustees. Acknowledging the enormous contribution WHISH had made to the lives of children with impairments and disabilities, and their families, he presented the High Sheriffs award to WHISH.
The annual High Sheriff Awards provide an opportunity to recognise and celebrate some of the voluntary organisations who are helping to make our county better.
The High Sheriff was accompanied by Isabelle Clough, Head of Philanthropy and Development at Two Ridings Community Foundation, the regional grant maker who have supported WHISH and provided funding to them over many years.
Two Ridings play a unique role in the North and East Yorkshire enabling people who want to give in the region to set up funds and donate to causes they care about. From those funds and donations Two Ridings make grants and give support to hundreds of grassroots community organisations who provide crucial services, just like WHISH do. Last year they distributed £2.2 million supporting over 500 community groups.
Isabelle said:
“It’s wonderful to come and visit the groups who make such a difference in our communities and it is always very special to see them receive the High Sheriff award. We have been long supporters of WHISH and the crucial work they do.
People who want to make a difference in Yorkshire and give something back find working with Two Ridings to be rewarding and straight forward. Every penny stays in Yorkshire and are used to support issues they care about.”
Reflecting on the visit of the High Sheriff, Tony Walker, the Chairman of WHISH said :
“It was so much appreciated by the Trustees, staff, volunteers and members, to have the activities of WHISH recognised at such a high level. WHISH is at the heart of the community, led by proactive volunteers, who have the wellbeing of WHISH children and families at the heart of all that we do. We look forward to 2023 as a year of consolidation in our new venue, the development of our outside space, and a range of new and exciting activities planned.”
