Two educational establishments from Suffolk joined forces to help put local charities in the spotlight during the festive season.
Suffolk New College and the University of Suffolk did so by inviting a host of benevolent causes to an event held at the Waterfront in Ipswich.
Around 15 organisations were able to promote what they do, network with other businesses, and receive donations from the public, amidst an occasion called ‘The Gift of Christmas: A Community Celebration of Giving’.
Visitors could also pledge their support to help local charities. This could be time, skills, financial support, or a collaborative project that strengthens Suffolk’s communities.
The event proved a success and one of the co-organisers, Gemma Matten from the University of Suffolk, is hoping to expand this festive get together in 2026.
Gemma – a business engagement manager – said: “We wanted to create an event to kickstart Christmas, where we could partner up with Suffolk New College and give something back to the community. We know that bringing charities and businesses together to foster collaborative opportunities can bring many benefits to our region.
“It’s been amazing to see everyone together, and it’s something we want to do every year and grow. It’s been inspiring.”
Debbie Gardiner is an employment engagement advisor for Suffolk New College. She said: “It’s been about raising everyone’s profiles so that they can showcase themselves.”
One of the charities involved was Brave Futures. Sandra Lucas is the corporate engagement officer for Brave Futures. She said: “We were invited to come along – and it was nice to be involved. At the end of the day, local charities support local communities, and the event was a chance to get everyone in one room so that people can see the good that we all do.”
Wendy Sheppard is head of income generation for Suffolk Mind. Wendy said: “It was so good to see so many local charities in one place to celebrate the ‘gift of giving’ and to have the opportunity to talk to some new local businesses about what we do, as well as to catch up with others that regularly support us. My message to everyone is please support your local charities, to enable us to continue to deliver valuable services to those that live and work here in Suffolk.”
Rachel Clarke is the community fundraising manager for Hearing Dogs. She said: “It was a lovely event which helped raise awareness of our charity and gave us the opportunity to meet representatives of other local organisations. It was a great idea to bring all the charities together.”
The Mayor of Ipswich opened proceedings. Cllr Stefan Long said: “Charities and businesses coming together to champion good causes across Ipswich is the perfect way to capture the importance of helping others during the festive season. Well done to all involved.”