smallhobbit | Sunshine Challenge - Day Five

Today's

sunshine_challenge has the bloodstone as its theme. Apparently, this gem can be used to increase one's courage, motivation and creative energy.

So, let's look at an area where I may need the attributes of this gem. I volunteer with a local charity called Gloucestershire Bundles, for whom I am treasurer and a trustee. (There can't be a Sunshine Challenge where they don't get mentioned!)

Motivation is probably the easiest - there is an ever increasing need for our services, with referrals being up 30% from our April 21 to March 22 year, as against the previous year. And this year to date this is up by a further 50%. Although at times the sheer demand can feel overwhelming.

Courage is needed because I don't just work in the background. Yesterday I was manning a stall at a church fete, selling items to raise funds and getting our name around a bit more. And the previous day I had been speaking to 60 year 1 children (age 5-6) who were looking at charities as part of their school syllabus. They had also had a collection of toys, books and clothing for us, which completely filled my little green car. I don't mind giving talks, this year I've also spoken at a concert where we held a retiring collection, and to a funding group, but going out and speaking to new people always requires courage.

Creative energy is most definitely required when applying for grants. This isn't creative in the sense that what I write is fictitious, but it's important to put the request in the best way to appeal to those who will allocate the grants. We know how important what we do is, but I need to convince others that our need both ties in well with their criteria, and that we are one of the charities they would most like to help.