Fundraiser Banquet
“Auxy, would you be able to host a table at the Fundraising Dinner?”
THAT WAS NOT THE QUESTION I expected to hear from Clea, head of Fundraising at Imago Dei, a Christian charity committed to equipping women in prison and upon their release, to live in their fullest potential set free from their past, knowing their true value and identity in life. I knew saying “Yes” was the right thing to say as I wanted to help. But if truth be told, I wasn’t sure that I would be able to get enough people for a whole table (10-12 people), who would want to go to London after work on a “school night”. The other challenge which was playing heavy at the back of my mind was, “Would people be interested in this particular charity?” If it was a charity that supported, young children, individuals who have found themselves in unfortunate circumstance through world disasters or through no fault of their own, or a charity that supported people with health conditions where much needed research continues; then maybe? However, I was aware that some people may hold unconscious bias about women in prison and may be reluctant to support such a charity, let alone attend a fundraising event in London.
I drafted a text with information of the charity with a link to the website page, and had a list of people I would approach. A list of 4 people initially. I sent the messages off, and was so tempted to follow up with another message along the lines of, “Please don’t feel you have to attend, having a look at the website to raise your awareness would be amazing”. However, I didn’t. I am so pleased that I didn’t as all four people accepted straight away. This gave me so much confidence and before you know it I did manage to have a whole table. Thus Table 1 was formed.
Table 1 had individuals from different backgrounds with ages ranging 38- 53, a mixture of those residing in London and in the home counties. We only had one gentleman on our table, who lives in Zimbabwe and was on a business trip – (he was a brave gentleman at that to be on a table full of women!) Professionally, we had individuals working in the health social sector, Human resources, finance, change management, entrepreneurs, and a university Lecturer. The beauty of the physical environment, welcoming and exceptional ambiance and delicious food all aided to create a conducive environment for connections and conversations. This diversity of the individuals on Table 1 did not hinder any connection. If anything, discussions about the work of Imago Dei all had the same theme. All guests acknowledged that they had little knowledge about the plight of women in prison, they had not appreciated the challenges faced both whilst in prison and post release. There were assumptions that the government/ local authority would support with housing and any employment needs, and the impact on relationships with family members especially children were underestimated. The group found the speakers enlightening and were impressed by their professionalism and passion. All unanimously agreed that by far the most impactful were the testimonials from the individuals with lived experience. They found these powerful, informative and stated that “any unconscious bias was immediately removed.”
One guest commented; “My experience and exposure to Imago Dei prison ministry and its excellent work, gave me a new insight and perspective to the challenging landscape of women in prison. There is a resilient spirit that often goes unnoticed. Behind the bars, there exists a community of strength, perseverance, and hope. I realised that many women in prison showcase incredible resilience, finding ways to rebuild their lives and redefine their narratives. Through education programs, vocational training, and support networks, like Imago Dei, these women strive for personal growth and rehabilitation. Listening to the women’s live testimonials helped me recognise their determination, fostering an environment that encourages empowerment and a chance for a brighter future beyond incarceration. There is hope for transformation and a belief in second chances, emphasizing the importance of rehabilitation over retribution.”
“Thus Table 1 was formed” - Auxy and her friends at the October Fundraiser Banquet
“ Thank you Imago Dei for hosting this event – raising awareness and introducing me to a group of people that I now call friends.”
“Attending this event has made me open minded to the works of different charities, stretching myself to add to my usual charities of choice.”
The group left equipped with information and plans to support the work of Image Dei in various ways, some include financial support and a commitment to share the work. Clea attended an Entrepreneurs Networking event in Leeds where she was able to connect with businesses in the area raising awareness of Imago Dei - one guest who is a private chef for dinner parties is planning a dinner party for the guests on Table 1 to be re-united –donations for dinner will be requested, with proceeds going to Imago Dei.
Since that call with Clea – I too have learnt a lot, being confident to step out of my comfort zone, and the importance of giving people the opportunity to be part of very worthy charitable causes, especially they ones they may not always be familiar with.