NOMINATOR

NOMINEE

1. Background and Extent of fundraising undertaken: Michael is the father of a young woman who lives in a Camphill community and he has been involved in various aspects of the organisation for nearly 10 years. When a new community was being established in Dublin in 2002 Michael was on the support group that really made the dream a reality. Since then he has been the Chair of the support group and has helped raise the funds necessary for the purchase of three houses.

   More generally, Michael has had an active involvement on the Council of Camphill Communities of Ireland. Two years ago, a dedicated PR/Fundraising Group was formed, led by Michael, in order to raise the profile of Camphill and to raise funds. Much of the work of this Group has been in developing promotional material such as a DVD, donations leaflet and newsletter. Through its direct efforts, the Group has also raised nearly ?100000. Indirectly, through support for the 17 Camphill communities, the Group has helped raise even more money and awareness.

2. Distinctiveness of the effort: Camphill is essentially staffed by volunteers. This is part of our ethos. This has many positive aspects but, unfortunately, can also lead to a certain lack of strategic focus and accountability.

   What Michael has brought is a 'can do' approach and a resolve to make progress. Without this, there is no doubt many of our efforts would have remained mere aspirations.

3. Longevity: In total about 10 years

   Innovation: Camphill in Ireland is made up of 17 practically autonomous communities, each with its own focus, structures, support groups and goals. It is not an easy organisation to manage. Michael has managed to:

   1. engage each community to become active in PR and fundraising
   2. establish a network of PR contacts
   3. keep the PR/Fundraising Group on track
   4. achieve all of the above while still remaining on good terms with everyone!

   In these difficult financial times, Michael has kept us looking forward at the next opportunity that may arise.

4. Leading by example: Michael's contribution has inspired others to engage more fully with their responsibilities, in the same way he does. His contribution is certainly valued by all involved in Camphill.

   Last year he was nominated for the Vodafone 'World of Difference' award and, as I understand it, got onto the final shortlist.

   Michael is used to promoting the cause and not himself.