Stockport’s Vernon Building Society has opened applications for its 2021 Community Awards and is welcoming submissions from local charities and not-for-profit groups.
Through the awards, the Stockport building society has donated over £90,000 to worthy causes over the last nine years, from large regional charities to much smaller local organisations. This year it will give away £10,000 to charities that work in the borough or are dedicated to supporting the Stockport community.
Last year’s winner of the £1,500 top prize was Millie’s Trust (pictured), which provides education and training in first aid.
Thirteen more charities and not-for-profits shared the £10,000 prize pot, including smaller not-for-profits Stockport Pride, Bare Necessities Toiletry Bank and Stockport Signpost for Carers.
Wendy Hobson, from Bare Necessities Toiletry Bank, said:
It is refreshing to find a significant local business with such a cohesive and generous process of engaging with local good causes. It was easy for us to participate, and Vernon made a really good job of creating excitement and involvement throughout, from the voting process and help along the way right up to the big reveal on awards night.
“To receive £750 in one fell swoop is such a boost to our finances as a grassroots organisation.”
All organisations are encouraged to enter this year’s awards which strive to support a diverse range of charities across the borough.
Tanasè Rivers, Head of Marketing, Brand and Culture at Vernon Building Society, said:
It’s been a really tough 18 months for charities, and we know fundraising has been especially hard under lockdown restrictions.
“We encourage all local charities and not-for-profits to enter our awards, which shine a light on the incredible community work happening across the borough.”
How to enter
Organisations can apply online via the Vernon Building Society website. The closing date for applications is 16th August.
Once applications have been received, 14 organisations will be shortlisted by the Vernon Community Panel as finalists in the 2021 Community Awards.
Public voting then begins, and the finalists will be awarded a minimum of £200 to a maximum of £1,500, announced in October.
To be eligible organisations must be based in, or benefit, the postcode areas SK1, SK2, SK3, SK4, SK5, SK6, SK7, SK8 or SK12. Applications supporting individuals or individual sponsorships, political activities, promotion of religious causes, activities that benefit animals or commercial enterprises won’t be considered.