TIME, TALENTS AND TREASURES
In analysing the success of any great endeavour it will transpire that there have been several key elements to its conception, birth and growth without which there could be no success. When identified, these will be seen to be both the backbone and lifeblood of the organisation and the source of its life and energy.
These ‘essentials for success’ are not to be found in a computer programme, nor in a piece of hi tech equipment, no, these virtues are found only in the people who make up the organisation.
Each person associated with Willowbrook, in whatever capacity, contributes to its success. Without them there could be no Hospice. The value of these contributions can be measured in three ways. Firstly, in relation to the giving of time. The most valuable gift a person can give to any cause is time, each hour spent is irretrievable and as such is highly valued.
It is nigh impossible to calculate the number of hours given to Willowbrook over the past ten years. Today, without the gift of time, there could be no Time for Caring, no relief of suffering, no sense of hope. Whether it is an hour a month or 35 hours per week or even more, each hour makes a difference to the lives of those cared for. Because of this, the gift of time is never taken for granted, it is greatly valued, be it given by supporters, volunteers or staff. It is valued because the hours invested become lives changed.
In addition to the giving of time, supporters of Willowbrook also give of themselves. They offer their talents, their gifts, their skills, combining both time and talents to further the work of Willowbrook.
Medical expertise utilised at the bedside, professional skills employed in fundraising and management, complement volunteers’ individual skills gained through work or life experience.
The sense of humour that can lift the spirit, the listening ear, the helping hand, the determination and dedication that ensures each patient is treated as an individual and with respect. All are invaluable assets for any organisation, especially so for Willowbrook Hospice.
There is an added bonus that comes with these skills and talents. It is these that give the Hospice character. The Hospice is not an impersonal business but the sum total of the contribution each individual brings, resulting in comments such as “I never thought it would be like this” from both patients and families.
Through time and talents given to fundraising events, camaraderie is built and the public face of the Hospice displayed to the community. Through such events others are drawn to also offer their time and talents.
The third element of the success story of Willowbrook is Treasure, or rather the funds raised to ensure Time for Caring is available 24 hours a day 365 days per year. The campaign office tirelessly leads this work, engaging with the community through events and the Hospice Shops.
Last year the amount raised was approximately one million pounds. This came from donations, fundraising events such as the Ladies Luncheon, the Hospice lottery and other activities. An important by product of such work is that it not only raises much needed funds, but also enables the Hospice to engage with the community.
All this reveals why the supporters of Willowbrook, in whatever category, are the backbone and lifeblood of the organisation. Without you all, Willowbrook could not exist.
On behalf of the Trustees and especially on behalf of those cared for, may I say thank you, to you, the supporters, volunteers, staff and management. Thank you for your time, your talents and your treasure.
Let us continue to work together and build on the success that is Willowbrook Hospice.
