The CEO of a Derby charity paid tribute to the city’s Mayor for showing his support at a fundraising event last week.
Around 80 guests came together at COSMO Derby, in London Road, for an evening of food, live music and fundraising which raised £1,410 for the Jericho House drug treatment project.
Organised by the Mayor of Derby, Cllr Jonathan Smale, the event united businesses, supporters and members of the community behind one of two charities he is supporting during his year in office.
Based in Alvaston, Jericho House runs a nine-bed residential home where people are supported to overcome addiction and rebuild their lives in recovery.
Support for the evening came in different forms, with COSMO hosting a buffet for guests and Michael Walsh’s company BK3 lending its backing to the cause.
The money raised will help the charity continue its work with those at a pivotal point in their lives, providing the stability and support needed to move forward in recovery.
Neil Ainslie, CEO of Jericho House, emphasised that the generosity shown on the night would have a tangible impact to the individuals it supports.
He said: “We are extremely grateful to the Mayor and the staff at COSMO for hosting this event.
“The money from every donation and every raffle ticket sold will make a huge difference to the lives of the people we work with and who stay with us.”
Cllr Jonathan Smale said the evening was not only an opportunity to raise vital funds, but to shine a light on the valuable work being carried out to support those in recovery.
He stated: “I’d like to express my sincere thanks to everyone at COSMO Derby for hosting such a fantastic fundraising event and to everyone who came along and supported the evening.
“Fundraising events such as this make a real difference, not only through the money they raise, but by helping to raise awareness of the important work carried out by local charities.
“COSMO’s decision to support Jericho House is a wonderful example of its commitment to the Derby community, and my heartfelt thanks go to the whole team, BK3 and everyone who helped make the evening such a success.”
The event forms part of Councillor Smale’s wider commitment to his chosen charities during his year as Mayor, helping to raise funds and awareness for their work across the city.
For Jericho House, the evening provided more than a financial boost, bringing the community behind its work and reinforcing a message at the heart of the charity – that there can be a positive future beyond addiction.
