Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

A year ago I signed up to support the East Lancashire Masonic Charity, and I was given the opportunity to see all the good work they do. In the past I've blindly paid to charities without knowing where the money goes so I thought it would be interesting to see.

My favourite experience so far has been at Hewlett Court which is a retirement home for the elderly. When I arrived I was amazed at how homely the place was. I could tell how well the residents are looked after by the atmosphere as soon as I walked through the door. The staff are lovely and well acquainted with the residents, there are activities and events on all the time, and there are even annual holiday trips.

Also whilst I was there I learned about the other charitable works of the ELMC, like the Young Peoples Committee that arranges events for young people who are beneficiaries or associated with beneficiaries of the Charity. There's also the Comforts Fund Committee which supports the day to day work of the Committee of Benevolence by administering monetary gifts at Birthday and Christmas and organising social functions during the course of the year.

All this and the many more amazing ways the charity touches peoples lives is all based on donations and the great amount of support and time that is given by volunteers and staff. There are also ways that the charity gives back into the local community by helping those in need and opening their doors to all at events.

If you're going to donate for one good cause this year it has to be this one because £1 goes a long way in a place like this.