Event marks the launch of Shape Housing Association and the
‘First Time Challenge’
23rd July 2008
Shape Housing Association is the new name for
Bath Self Help Housing Association. And there was a double
celebration on Wednesday, 23rd July as Councillor David Bellotti,
the Chairman of Bath & North East Somerset Council, relaunched
the charity and kicked off a major fundraising campaign – the
‘First Time Challenge’.
The name change comes as the association celebrates its silver
anniversary. Since 1983 it has grown and developed, and now
provides services in the wider area around Bath and North East
Somerset.
(Left to right) Cllr David Bellotti, Chairman of
Bath and North East Somerset Council tries out some circus skills
for the first time with Roger Hill, Shape's Chair, and Managing
Director Louise Swain.
Louise Swain, Managing Director, said:
‘We provide a much-needed service that is
valued by the thousands of people we have helped over the last 25
years. As Shape, we are looking forward to the challenges ahead to
meet people’s needs in the future. Our exciting fundraising
campaign will increase the contribution we can make to their
lives.’
The ‘First Time Challenge’ is an appeal to raise £30,000 to help
fund a minibus, basic furniture and kitchen essentials for homeless
families, to help turn an empty flat into a home. The fundraising
is already underway with a donation of £1,500, which will also go
towards training aids for a basic skills course, to help vulnerable
young people prepare for independent living and employment.
Bath-based athlete and Olympic gold medallist Jason Gardener
supports Shape’s work and is fully behind the First Time Challenge.
He said:
‘If there is something that you’ve always
wanted to do, get in touch with Shape to realise your dream! In
return we are asking for donations and volunteers to help young
people face the challenge of building the life they would choose,
rather than the one they have ended up with.’
During the event, there was a chance for guests to try something
out themselves for the first time, including:
- Juggling, plate spinning, or riding a unicycle with Juan
Herrera of the Circus Maniacs School of Circus Arts.
- Cookery ‘taster’ sessions with Anna Marie Perry from ‘Get
Cooking’ in Bath.
- Digital photo editing skills and tips with Nick LeSanto from
Time Bank Plus in Twerton.
- Holistic therapies with therapist Tina Hunt.
The challenge has gone out to individuals, companies and
organisations to do something for the first time - whether it’s
climbing a mountain, running a marathon, cooking a meal, or singing
in a show. Members of staff at Somer Housing Group, of which Shape
is a member, have already backed the campaign by completing a
tandem sky dive.