In a heartwarming turn of events that puts the pedal to the metal for community engagement, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars announced on February 13 that the Aldingbourne Trust has been crowned its House Charity for 2024. This selection puts the spotlight on the Chichester-based organization, celebrated for its tireless dedication to providing services to over 1,500 individuals grappling with learning and physical disabilities, including autism, autism spectrum disorders, and Down’s Syndrome.
With a history that traces back to 1978, the Aldingbourne Trust has made waves with its innovative approach to supporting its community through more than a dozen social enterprises. These initiatives not only offer vital opportunities for supported living and outreach but also include the Aldingbourne Country Centre, a beacon of engagement about a stone’s throw away from Rolls-Royce’s home turf in Goodwood.
The tradition of choosing a House Charity, a practice that revved up when Rolls-Royce began operations in Goodwood in 2003, involves the whole workforce coming together to nominate and vote for causes that drive their passion. Andrew Ball, Head of Corporate Relations at Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting the company’s commitment to making a significant impact in the lives of those in the local community and beyond.
Abigail Rowe, Head of Fundraising at the Aldingbourne Trust, shared her excitement over this high-profile endorsement, acknowledging the enormous potential this partnership holds for advancing the welfare of individuals with disabilities. The trust’s focus on fostering skills development and employment opportunities is poised for a turbo boost, thanks to the support from Rolls-Royce.
The announcement also offered a look back at the impressive fundraising achievements for Sophie’s Legacy, a children’s cancer charity, which was the recipient of Rolls-Royce’s charitable efforts in 2023. From pop-up markets to the sale of handmade leather goods by apprentices, the company’s staff have shown an unwavering commitment to fueling positive change.
As Rolls-Royce gears up for a year of fundraising activities in support of the Aldingbourne Trust, the journey ahead promises to be one of impactful collaboration, demonstrating once again the power of community and corporate partnership in driving forward the wheels of progress.
