Croydon Vision among the 2023 King’s Awards recipients

 

Croydon Vision, which celebrated its 100^th anniversary on the 6^th of October 2023, is among the recipients of the King's Award for Voluntary Service.

This is a very important milestone for a charity that has been working with Croydon’s blind and visually impaired community for the past 100 years. For the charity to receive King’s awards in the year it celebrated its centenary is a great coincidence.

Croydon vision, formerly known as Croydon Voluntary Association for the Blind, was formed in July 1923. In 1982, Queen Elizabeth visited Croydon Vision to support the services and show appreciation for the volunteers who are at the centre of the organisation. The charity has been transforming the lives of its members and has now about 900 members.

Susanette Mansour the Chief Executive of the charity said, “This award marks a significant milestone in our history. It symbolizes the collective efforts of our volunteers, staff, and supporters who tirelessly work towards a more inclusive and supportive environment for the visually impaired community.” She further said, “This award is more than just a plaque on the wall. It's an affirmation of our influence that extends beyond our immediate community. Being likened to an MBE for volunteer groups, it underscores the importance of our collective societal contributions.”. Susanette continued, “This award isn't just about Croydon Vision; it's a testament to the transformative impact volunteer groups can have on society. It serves as a call to consider the role we can individually and collectively play in creating supportive and strong communities through giving back. This milestone is a celebration of our community's strength, resilience, and generosity. It's a reminder that together, we can overcome challenges and create positive change.” In extending her thanks, Susanette further said, " To all Croydon Vision volunteers, supporters, and community - this award is as much yours as it is ours. Let’s continue to shine the light on inclusivity, understanding, and support, making our community a beacon of hope for all. Thank you for being an important part of our journey, and here's to more achievements together!”

Kwame Dartey, a member and volunteer since 2017, shares his journey, saying, "I've gained confidence knowing that I'm not alone with my disability and found a new purpose by contributing as a volunteer. This experience has enriched my life."

Similarly, Jim Smith, another long-time member and volunteer, expressed his appreciation for the organisation's growth and activities. He said, ''I have been here for about 10 years and witnessed remarkable transformations. Our leader Susanette’s brilliant helm has initiated a myriad of events, excursions and classes making Croydon Vision increasingly accessible. It's an organisation I love being a part of, spending 3-4 days a week here witnessing and contributing to the change.''

Finally, Christine Rose described volunteering at Croydon Vision as a "life saver" recommending others to share in the satisfaction of making a difference.

Full list of the 2023 Kings Awards for voluntary service is in the following link

https://www.thegazette.co.uk/London/issue/64227/data.pdf

Walking with purpose together – Croydon Vision Delivering for us

 

On Friday the 6^th of October, we brought together people from different walks of life for a Gala Dinner to celebrate the 100^th anniversary of a historic organisation called Croydon Vision. Yes, a month ago, we were able to organise a flawless Gala Dinner that exceeded expectations by all standards. Reflecting on the Strong Past; rejoicing the Focused Present and laying foundations for an Ambitious Future, we were able to deliver together as Croydon Vision.

As I sit back and reflect on the day,  the days before 6^th October, the weeks and months before that very historic moment, there is a lot to be proud of. The feeling of togetherness among the team, both staff and volunteers; the engagement with many friends and allies; the cooperation and partnership with partners and stakeholders, was all something to be proud of as a strong Croydon community.

When I first had conversation about the Gala Dinner with Susanette Mansour, the CEO of Croydon Vision, all I was thinking was how best we could deliver the event and excel together. How I could lead the preparation for a great celebration. The stories, testimonies, music, videos, food and business in an engaging way. After all, it was the celebration of 100 years together that needed our utmost attention as a team. It was celebration of the many good things that have happened over the past 100 years. The many wonderful leaders both staff and volunteers that contributed their level best over the past 100 years and those who have stepped in now to lead this organisation which is delivering for Croydon.

As we reflect on that wonderful day of celebrations with pride,  all we are thinking is how best we could take this small, but ambitious organisation to the next level. The organisation has a very bold plan that can transform lives of many. It is led by a very visionary CEO, who is walking with purpose to leave a long-lasting legacy. It has a team willing to push boundaries and deliver. All the organisation needs is to have a few good partners with vision and clear purpose to transform the lives of not only those coming to Croydon Vision, but also the lives of partners. Businesses and organisations with great social corporate responsibilities should use the opportunities at Croydon Vision to deliver their responsibilities and discharge themselves responsibly. Croydon Vision should raise £7.5M to deliver its ambitious plans;  and it is time for businesses to step in and deliver together.

Here is the message from Susanette Mansour, the CEO of Croydon Vision, which can help partners to have a clear understanding of what Croydon Vision aspires to achieve. Time to step in and deliver for Croydon’s blind and Visually Impaired community.

Together for a better Croydon and beyond.