The grand opening ceremony for our new I Can Ventures building took place last Wednesday, with a large turnout for what was a fantastic occasion. 

Timed to coincide with the charity’s 35^th Anniversary, the new building was formally opened by Chris Robbins, Mayor of Waltham Forest who was hugely impressed with the work Ellingham does, and the “joyous” atmosphere around the place.

Previously struggling in a dilapidated portacabin, the I Can Ventures service received a £700,000 grant from the National Lottery Community Fund.  In addition, staff, trustees, clients and supporters undertook a year of fundraising activities to help furnish the building and buy equipment. 

Several community and corporate partners also contributed funding and resources to the building project and representatives were in attendance to see the finished facility.

It’s quite an achievement for an organisation of our size to accomplish something on such a grand scale

Rosemary Clark, who manages the I Can Ventures Day Opportunities service said:

“This event gave us a fabulous opportunity to showcase our successes.  We are all feeling very proud.  It’s quite an achievement for an organisation of our size to accomplish something on such a grand scale. Moving to this wonderful building has enabled the service to grow and flourish.

I am immensely proud of I Can Ventures, the clients’ achievements and staff’s dedication and hard work. 

These are challenging times in social care with the reduction of personal budgets and many vulnerable adults at risk of social isolation.  Therefore, it is vital that we continue to provide such a crucial service to the learning disability community.”

To see lots more photos from the day click this link.

---

We are now fundraising to purchase a minibus which will further increase the variety of opportunities we are able to offer.

To find out more follow this link

A