Tea Time for Change

Plus: Saving Donkeys with Socks

Chief Happiness Officer
September 05, 2024 • Estimated Reading Time: 9 minutes

Good morning, wonderful souls! 🌞

Get ready to kick-start your day with some heartwarming positivity! Here's what we've got brewing for you today:

- Afternoon Tea for a Cause: The Ascot Group's vibrant fundraiser raised a whopping £440 for Breast Cancer Now, proving that good company and tea can spark wonderful change! ☕️
- Socks Saving Donkeys: In a unique twist, the Donkey Sanctuary is calling for your old socks to protect its adorable residents from pesky flies. Because who knew socks could be so stylishly beneficial? 🧦

So, grab your cuppa, and let’s dive into these uplifting stories that remind us how kindness and creativity can transform lives! 🌈

Afternoon Tea for a Cause: Brewing Hope

In a delightful convergence of community spirit and charity, the Ascot Group recently hosted an Afternoon Tea fundraiser that left everyone buzzing. With an impressive £440 raised for Breast Cancer Now, the event was a testament to the power of good company and a great cup of tea.

Sweet Success in Fundraising

Picture this: a room filled with the mouth-watering scent of freshly baked cakes, laughter echoing off the walls, and the community coming together for a noble cause. That was the essence of the Ascot Group’s tea party. Staff and local residents indulged in scrumptious treats, fostering a sense of unity while supporting breast cancer research. And let's not forget the applaud-worthy baking skills on display—who knew the office was home to such culinary geniuses?

A Nod from Westminster

Adding a sprinkle of recognition, local MP Dan Aldridge graced the event with his presence, commending both the initiative and the heart behind it. “This was a fabulous event in aid of a tremendous cause,” he remarked. His words served as a reminder that efforts like this not only raise funds but also elevate awareness about the vital work of charities like Breast Cancer Now.

Join the Fundraising Party!

Inspired to whip up your own fundraising event? Breast Cancer Now has your back! With a variety of ideas and support, anyone can join in on the mission to make a difference. So, get those aprons on, and let’s turn your kitchen into a beacon of hope! Find more information at Breast Cancer Now.

Together, we can brew change—one tea party at a time!

Read the full news here.

Socks for Donkeys: A Stylish Solution

The Donkey Sanctuary - Donkeys Moretta and Gelsomina

The Donkey Sanctuary - Donkeys Chandoline, Moretta and Gelsomina

The Donkey Sanctuary in Devon - credit The Donkey Sanctury

In a quirky turn of events, socks are making headlines and saving the day—or should we say, saving the legs? The Donkey Sanctuary’s Italian haven has launched an ingenious appeal to protect their donkeys from pesky biting insects this summer, and we can’t stop smiling about it!

A “Sock-it” to Insects Initiative

This unique fundraising venture began when Ilaria Ruzza, a dedicated Fundraising Officer, turned to social media with a simple request: send us your long, clean socks! Apparently, striped socks (in shades of black, grey, or white) have proven effective in repelling flies. Who knew our old socks could become so fashionably functional?

The response was phenomenal! Within just a week, Ilaria's post reached a staggering 90,000 people, resulting in 180 pairs of socks sent to the sanctuary. Let’s be honest, that's quite the haul for a bunch of four-legged friends. “We were able to reach our supporters across the country really quickly,” Ilaria explained, showcasing how social media can be a powerful tool for good.

Keeping Those Legs Stylish and Safe

With their stylish new legwear, the donkeys are now set for a more comfortable autumn, free from the buzzing torment of flies. The sanctuary also shared heartwarming photos of the donkeys flaunting their new threads, much to the delight of their growing fanbase.

But wait, there’s more! The charm of fashionable legwear isn’t just an Italian affair. Close to home, donkeys at The Donkey Sanctuary in Devon have also been spotted trying out patterned leggings. Who would have thought donkeys would pave the way for a new fashion trend?

Thanks to the community’s generosity, our lovable donkeys can now strut around in style while also enjoying a break from those troublemaking insects. Now that’s a win-win!

Read the full news here.

Healing Hooves: Veterans Reconnect with Nature

A veteran enrolled in the CERV program handles her horse – credit DoVA

In the heart of Tennessee, a unique programme is helping veterans heal through the unconditional love and companionship of horses. This innovative approach at the Center for Equine Recovery (CERV) is not just about petting ponies; it’s a therapeutic journey that turns veterans into confident horse whisperers.

A Gentle Touch of Nature

Joanne Parchetta, a participant in the programme, shared how her horse, Penny, became more than just a four-legged friend—she taught her patience and self-trust. Parchetta believes, "When trusting in this amazing animal, it makes you trust in yourself and rediscover things in yourself you thought were lost." Like a therapist with hooves, horses offer a unique kind of feedback—if you’re feeling anxious, you might find your horse mirroring that emotion, serving as a living mirror to our inner turmoil.

In learning to groom and guide their horses, veterans confront their own fears and uncertainties. They dive into a ten-week programme that’s a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on learning where cooperation between horse and handler is key. As Lee Farris put it, “You have to work as a team with your horse emotionally and physically for it to work.” It’s not just rehabilitation—it's rebirth.

More than Just Horses

CERV stands apart as the only programme of its kind in the US, but it’s clear that the equine therapy revolution is gaining momentum. From therapy dogs to gentle sheep, animal-assisted therapies are carving out a space in mental health care. As Parchetta rightly states, “I know that you are not defined by chronic illness or physical disability.” Through these programmes, veterans are learning to reclaim their narrative.

So, let’s tip our cowboy hats to the healing power of horses and the brave souls who are taking steps forward—one hoof at a time!

Read the full news here.

In other uplifting news

Transform your home into an eco-friendly space with our latest insights! Discover seven practical ways to create a sustainable haven at your residence. Read more
In West Yorkshire, a cheeky cat named Taboo is captivating her community by stealing clothing items from neighbours. Her owner has taken to sharing photos of the amusing haul, keeping everyone entertained! Read more
In a remarkable journey, Matilda Welin cycled from London to Sweden, advocating for zero-emissions travel. Her adventurous spirit inspires us all to consider greener choices while exploring the world! Read more
Oceanographers recently explored a remarkable underwater mountain in the Pacific, larger than Mount Olympus! Their discoveries reveal an astonishing range of marine wonders, showcasing nature's hidden beauty. Read more

Inspiring Quote of the Day

"Your outlook on life is a direct reflection on how much you like yourself."

— Lululemon

Uplifting tweets

We've now awarded £2 billion in Horizon Europe guarantee funding.
The funding has gone to UK-based researchers, innovators and businesses tackling everything from studying bacteria in waters to artificial intelligence combating drug trafficking.
More: ukri.org/news/uk-celebr…
— UK Research and Innovation (@UKRI_News)
8:14 AM • Sep 4, 2024