The founder of a Nottingham charity has said he is “grateful” after an organisation sold the city's Wise Owl sculptures to raise money for the good cause. By auctioning off the 10 owl sculptures, located in different landmarks across Nottingham, Nottingham Business Improvement District (BID) raised money for Switch UP CIC.
Any money raised remaining at the end of January will be donated to the Robin Hood Fund. All owls represent what people associate with Nottingham from the Nottingham Owl Walk 2020 which invited people back to the city after lockdown.
Nottingham BID has donated the owls as they have fulfilled their previous purpose. Marcellus Baz, chief executive of Switch Up CIC, spoke about how the money raised will benefit his charity and those in need in the area.
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He said: “It’s fantastic to work in collaboration with Nottingham BID. The owls have heritage and they’re landmarks in different parts of the city.
“I’m grateful for Nottingham BID for raising vital funds which will go towards giving people food parcels, educational materials and supporting families during the cost of living crisis. Some of the funds going to the Robin Hood Fund will ensure that other organisations, similar to ours, won’t be struggling.”
Mr Baz is also a board member at the Nottingham Project. The Robin Hood Fund relaunched in the winter.
He described last year as “dark and bleak”. The community worker and coach hopes that this year will be better.
He said: “As a community, we need to come together even if it means you smile at someone. Together, we need to help the disadvantaged and there are people who aren’t disadvantaged but are vulnerable.
“At this time of year, suicide rates are high so basic things like talking to one another and being more tolerant are needed. I’d really like to see the statutory and voluntary sector come together and collaborate with corporate businesses more to raise funds for those in need, especially during the cost of living crisis because some of the things we’re seeing at the moment in the community are horrendous.”
Alex Flint, chief executive at Nottingham BID, added: "I would like to thank everyone who participated in making the auction such a success. The auction raised valuable funds that will significantly impact the lives of those in need in the local area. Over the years, the owls have provided a free, fun activity to residents and visitors to the city centre, and this was an excellent opportunity for us to give back to the community.
"We are very pleased to be working in partnership with Switch Up CIC to distribute the funds raised to local charities, food banks, and social pantries in order to provide support and assistance to Nottingham families that are living through a difficult time. In addition, Treat Kitchen is to be thanked for their generous donation to the appeal and their support. Together, businesses can accomplish a great deal."
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