Last Saturday morning we held an informal meeting at Amadipesment Café in Palmanova. The meeting was well attended and attracted long serving members/volunteers, new members recently arrived to the island and people interested in discovering more.
The object of the meeting was to:
- allow members/volunteers to get to know one another
- receive an overview of projects on the go and plans for the future
- have the opportunity to ask questions and make suggestions
The meeting was conducted in English and Spanish. After a brief welcome everyone introduced themselves to the group, with members responsible for specific areas giving a brief overview of their area.
A number of issues and suggestions we raised:
Dignipacks – there was concern to bring the cost of the packs down. It was suggested that any members or their friends connected to hotels could assist Mediterranea by taking advantage of their bulk purchasing. It was suggested to get schools to involve their pupils in donating items. Also members who travel and stay in hotels could collect and donate the small soaps, shampoos… provided in the rooms.
Facebook – members and those interested were reminded that Mediterranea now has a UK Facebook site where, once you have clicked the ‘like’ box, you can receive news, updates and give feedback, encouragement…
Home Alone – it was suggested to support elderly people living alone who are lonely by visiting them to chat and help out a little in their homes. Warning was given as to the delicacy needed in taking on such a project and that linking with an organisation already involved, at least initially, would be advisable.
Fruit Picking for 4th World – various ideas were put forward for additional orchards and even a vegetable plot, all of which will be followed up. A regularly occurring issue was transport. Any member with access to a big car or jeep and a little time on their hands would be very welcome.
Fundraising – a number of events will take place in the coming weeks, which will be published in Facebook and the Blog. High value items were requested for an up coming raffle. It was suggested to hold a fundraising brainstorming for anyone interested.
What’s Going On? – a number of members expressed surprise at how much was going on in Mediterranea.
The meeting ended with an excellent resume by Dr Michael Stoma.
Feedback received since the meeting has indicated that it had been worthwhile, that it had stimulated some new ideas and had motivated potential and existing members to become involved or more involved. A number of members expressed their hope that there would be more meetings, which could even include a social element.
If you would like to give feedback on the meeting either post directly to this Blog or write to Natalie Elfers natalie.elfers@gmail.com or Robin Griffith rgrif367@gmail.com
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