Story
For almost 20 years, A.R.Ts Afternoon, a non-profit, grassroots charity, have been a shining light for young people across North Edinburgh and East Lothian, providing free music-based education and social/emotional support through their wonderful Samba drumming group, Pulse of the Place. Their outreach programme runs mainly within communities coping with greater levels of poverty and/or discrimination, where opportunities in the arts are hard to come by, helping young people grow educationally, personally and socially.
The difference they make is truly incredible! My firsthand experience of the impact they have, through my daughter, Aimee, is just one example among the innumerable positive stories that have been shared since the group began, back in 2006. Over the last four years, as a member of Pulse of the Place, Aimee has not only grown hugely in confidence and musical ability, but the inclusive, supportive environment they provide has also helped her to realise her own self-worth, and that she is capable of opening up and sharing more of her true self with others, allowing her to make some amazing new friends. It’s become a true home away from home for her, at a time when other aspects of life have been pulling her down. For that, I will be forever grateful ❤️
Last year, I was delighted to be given the opportunity to help provide greater support to A.R.Ts Afternoon by becoming a volunteer member of the board. Since then, I have also been learning more about the behind-the-scenes efforts that keep this great program going, including sourcing and applying for funding, as well as the immense dedication and hard work both Rohan (Project Leader - bottom left pic above) and Sarah (Musical Director- bottom left pic above -righthand side) put in, each and every week, in order to provide exciting experiences/opportunities, and support to every young member of the group. They are an inspiration!
Unfortunately, however, this year, Pulse of the Place are facing some funding challenges due to high demand across the voluntary sector, losing support from a key donor for the first time in nearly 11 years. As a result, they’ve had to make the difficult decision to implement cutbacks to the number of group sessions they can provide, as, for the time being, it is the only option available to save money while still maintaining a degree of normal service.
But together, we can help! I will be popping on my walking boots for this year's Kiltwalk in Edinburgh to raise a few extra quid to add to their pot. So, even if you can only spare a little, please consider donating in support of this wonderful organisation. Every penny counts and really means the world!
I may even consider bringing my good friend, Garnett, the Phoenix - one of Pulse of the Place's mascots, which I can be seen sporting in the fundraiser pic above - along for the ride! 🐦🔥😁 (If Pulse don't mind me looking after him for the day!)
Thank you ever so much! ❤️
Jenny xx
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