Esther Rantzen has given MPs across the nation a ‘pledge kit’ with a host of ideas to benefit others, such as sharing their career skills with local community clubs, groups and small charities, planting flowers in a local park, baking a Banana and Chocolate Chip Cake to donate to a lonely neighbour, homeless shelter or nursing home and even knitting hand puppets for children.CSV Make a Difference Day ambassador, Esther Rantzen said: “I am encouraging MPs and people of all ages to take part in CSV Make a Difference Day to share their career skills and personal hobbies, as well as making local communities thriving and happy places.”
After school and sports clubs, small charities and community groups urgently need people to share their skills and passion to help them survive. From web design, marketing or accountancy to a personal passion for photography, gardening or music – everyone has a skill they can use to help others.
The day is supported by Music Producer, Pete Waterman and Channel 4 News Broadcaster, Jon Snow, as well as small local groups across the country and major charities including Barnardo’s, Sue Ryder Care, Leonard Cheshire Disability, Action on Hearing Loss, Marie Curie Cancer Care and Cancer Research UK.
Graham said: “CSV Make a Difference Day, is the UK’s biggest single day of volunteering on Saturday 27th October 2012 with events taking place a week either side. This year the focus is sharing skills and personal passions to support the local community. The campaign is looking to demonstrate how giving time through volunteering with friends, family and neighbours and being an active member of the community can help local community clubs, groups and small charities survive during difficult economic times.
“The campaign is looking to empower individuals and groups to volunteer this year. New independent research shows that over three million people have been more inspired to volunteer due to the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics.”
