nourish team An illustrated photo book has been produced by a local businessman to shine a light on inspirational communities in Norfolk. Norfolk at its best was created by Kevin Keable after being inspired by the work of charities in Norfolk and that of the Norfolk Community Foundation, which provides funding and support to charities and community groups in the county.
Having previously been involved in fundraising for local charities and recognising the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on communities, from rises in cases of domestic abuse, those struggling with mental ill health, cancer diagnosis, isolation, and increased use of food banks, Kevin made the decision to create the book to help give back by raising vital funds and awareness of the people and charitable organisations representing Norfolk at its best.
Norfolk at its best features 80 charities and community groups across Norfolk with pictures of their work and inspirational quotes. Each page gives a snapshot of just some of the stories that demonstrate the richness in ideas and aspiration in local communities, as well as the deep understanding of the issues local people can face. Some of the featured charities include: SENsational Families, who provide support services and training for families with special educational needs and/or disabilities; the Daisy Programme, supporting men and women living with or who have been affected by domestic abuse; the Matthew Project, supporting people impacted by drug and alcohol related issues; and Big C local cancer charity, which supports patients living with a cancer diagnosis and their families within centres across the region.
Kevin said: “This book has been created to shed some light on those silent givers, those who support and help to forge a better community in our beautiful county. I have been so moved by these people and have been lucky enough to participate in some of their wonderful fundraising events and felt that they need more recognition for the unrelenting work that they do. I hope the books makes people smile, feel better or simply stirs an emotion inside of them.”
Claire Cullens, CEO of Norfolk Community Foundation, said: “Across Norfolk, local charities and community groups are working tirelessly to provide care, support and companionship to those of us most in need. At the Foundation, we are inspired every day by the compassion and commitment of these vital groups, and we’re delighted to shine a light on just some of their amazing stories in this book.”
Sir Norman Lamb, who set up a Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund with Norfolk Community Foundation to support charities and community groups working with children and young people, said: “This wonderful compendium of examples of charities across Norfolk highlights the rich diversity of people doing amazing things in their communities. This is what makes for a good society. The work of Norfolk Community Foundation to support local charities and community groups is immensely impressive and ‘Norfolk at its best’ is a celebration of the selfless effort on behalf of others which enriches our county and helps to support many very vulnerable people.”
- You can purchase Norfolk at its best at www.norfolkfoundation.com/giving-and-philanthropy/norfolk-at-its-best/, with 100% of sales going to the Norfolk Community Foundation to support the work of local charities and community groups.
- You can also buy at the Book Hive and Jarrold in Norwich, The Furzedown Hotel in Gt Yarmouth, and The West Norfolk Deaf Association Book Shop in Downham Market.
