Barclays Wealth and Investment Management has boosted the funds raised for Project 21 at a charity fashion show with a donation of £1,500.
Employees were on hand to sell raffle tickets during the event, held at Tower House, Douglas, with Barclays matching the money they raised. The event has now brought in more than £3,500 in total.
Project 21 shares the money with other local charities Craig’s Heartstrong Foundation, Manx Blind Welfare Society, Manx Radio Dreamcatcher Appeal, MSPCA and The Children’s Centre.
The fashion show was the brainchild of Nuala Perrin, former manager of Douglas clothing store M&Co, and saw models wearing a variety of outfits provided by the shop. It proved a great success for Project 21 and the other charities that were involved.
Project 21 Secretary Di O’Brien said: “The fashion show, driven by Nuala’s energy, was great fun and helped raise a significant amount for Project 21 and other Island charities.”
“It was wonderful to see Barclays employees there on the night lending their support by selling raffle tickets, and to now receive an additional £1,500 from Barclays has been a real boost. We rely entirely on such support and generosity, which allows us to continue our work in the Island.”
Project 21, established in 2000, brought together five Manx charities – Manx Mencap, Down’s Syndrome Isle of Man, Autism in Mann, Manx Gateway and the Isle of Man Special Olympics – with a shared vision. Representatives from each charity worked together to create a headquarters and social centre for people with a learning disability in the Isle of Man.
Centre 21 opened in 2007 and has been used by many charities to extend the range of activities they offer members, from drama and music to all kinds of sport.
Chair of the Barclays Isle of Man Charity Committee Stuart Nelson said: “I am delighted to be able to present a cheque for £1,500 to Project 21. The fashion show was a huge success, and it is fantastic that Barclays was able to play a role on the night, and with this donation.”
“The charities involved in Project 21 provide a vital resource which has been delivering real benefits, and I know these funds will help with the important work they undertake in our community.”