Pictured: Graham Skeats
Shropshire schools and charities are set to receive a boost from
a new fundraising card launched by a county man who has pledged to
raise £50,000 for good causes through the project.
Peel2Save has been launched in the county by Graham Skeats, of
Shropshire-based Computer Therapy Ltd, and gives people discounts
at local businesses while donating to charities and community
organisations, such as school PTA groups, at the same time.
The scheme has recently been awarded a Best Business Award for
Best Corporate Social Responsibility.
Andrew Areoff, chairman of the Best Business Awards judging
panel, said: "At a time when charities are feeling the pinch more
than ever, Peel2Save offers an innovative new way for good causes
to raise vital cash - and give something back to those who make the
donations.
"It is an exceptional business model, tried and tested in the US
and now gathering pace in the UK - and not before time."
Among the organisations already benefiting from the scheme is
the charity North Shrewsbury Friendly Neighbours whose volunteers
carry out numerous tasks like shopping and transport for the
elderly and vulnerable.
The Peel2Save fundraising card, a new concept which has come
over from America, is billed as one of the most efficient and
effective ways for charities, schools, clubs, youth groups and
other not-for-profit organisations to raise much needed money.
The credit-card-sized offer book contains 64 individual peel-off
coupons, each one promoting a local business. The Telford card
includes discounts at Pizza Hut, Frankie & Bennys, The Blue
Elephant, Brantano and the Green Field Farm Shop and the Shrewsbury
one includes discounts at Loch Fyne, Salop Music Centre and Tony
and Guy.
Typically, the offers are worth well over £300, yet they
cost £10 to buy with £5 of that going to the good
cause.
Mr Skeats said: "I really wanted to be involved with something
for the local community. I live and work in Shropshire and I care
about supporting other local businesses and charities, so much so
that I'm determined to raise £50,000 for good causes through
these cards.
"I have worked hard to source some fantastic deals at a broad
range of local businesses which will give the cards wide
appeal.
"I don't expect anyone to use all of the vouchers, but even
using just one can pay back the £10.
"We are all feeling the pinch at the moment so the discounts
will genuinely help people and they make great value stocking
fillers at Christmas.
"The cards are really popular so local groups and charities can
raise funds quickly and users can rest assured their money is going
to support their local communities."
To find out more about Peel2Save or to purchase an offer card,
please contact Graham Skeats on (01952) 898711 or go to
www.peel2save.co.uk or
www.facebook.com/Peel2SaveTelfordAndShrewsbury
Any Shrewsbury or Telford schools, clubs or charities interested
in benefiting from the cards can get in touch via the same
method.