August 22, 2024
At the Anchor Society, we believe in the power of collaboration to make a meaningful difference in the lives of older people. One of the ways we achieve this is by providing grants to other organisations that share our mission to support the elderly in Bristol, Bath & North East Somerset, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire. We also proudly partner with the Bristol Old People Funders Alliance (BOPFA), a group of grant funders who collaborate to better address the pressing needs of the elderly in Bristol. This collaborative approach amplifies our impact and ensures that our funding reaches those who need it most. The Community Ticket Club. Launched by St George's in October 2022, this initiative promotes the well-being of older people by providing them with free access to weekly classical music concerts. These performances, featuring some of the UK's most talented young musicians, offer a powerful and uplifting experience. Our grant of £5,000 has enabled the Community Ticket Club to offer over 500 free concert tickets, reaching 260 older individuals, some of whom have enjoyed multiple performances. For many, this represents their first introduction to classical music, and the impact has been profound. Beyond just the joy of music, the Community Ticket Club fosters a sense of community and belonging. It provides a safe and welcoming space for older people to reconnect with social and cultural activities, particularly for those experiencing challenges in their lives or health. The feedback from participants is heartwarming: "It's not just music, it's the being together... the feeling of community." "I enjoy travelling to a concert, going on my own, and not feeling that fear of going on my own." These testimonials demonstrate the power of the arts to bring people together and combat loneliness and isolation. We are proud to support the Community Ticket Club and to play a role in enriching the lives of older people in our community. Through our strategic partnerships and grant-making efforts, the Anchor Society continues to work tirelessly to ensure that older people have the resources and support they need to live fulfilling and independent lives. Together, we can create a more compassionate and inclusive society for everyone.