Hi my name is Joanne Juliff and I'm the Director of Empower Inspire CIC, established in January 2022 after the Covid pandemic, with its mission to 'Reduce Loneliness and Prevent Isolation'. Since then I've created a number of community groups - Dementia Cafes, Parenting Groups, Singing Groups etc. Initially I was generously supported by various funders to cover our costs -rents, wages, transport and refreshments. Unfortunately this is no longer the case, once the first year had expired, none of the funding was renewed. I persevered with the groups as I knew the difference they were making, however this year I've had to make the tough decision to close 4 out of the original 8 groups.

This fundraiser is to raise funds to meet the shortfall I have in paying the rent for my Sunflower Cafe, (and hopefully contribute towards refreshments) which is a weekly, well attended group for individuals living with Dementia and their loved ones. From April 2025, this group is entirely reliant on donations and every penny raised will go towards ensuring its survival until March next year.

In the last 2 months I've managed to raise £680 in a previous fundraiser, towards the £1000 needed to pay the rent for the whole of 2024/25.

This fundraiser has a target of £500 - to cover the shortfall and help me to supply the much appreciated tea, coffee and biscuits that are supplied to all our visitors.

The Sunflower provides a hugely valuable, consistent, supportive, non-judgmental space for individuals affected by Dementia in any way. Your help to continue to offer this support would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.