‘Feel Good’ Fundraising’ Margaret’s Magic Hands
In our ‘Feel Good Fundraising’ series, Bamboo’s digital marketing apprentice, Georgie, follows up on the stories of inspirational volunteer fundraisers to ask them the questions no one’s thought to ask.
Georgie, it’s over to you.
Just before Christmas, I came across Margaret’s JustGiving page. She was aiming to make and sell 50 jars of jam and marmalade in her 100th year to raise funds for Nightingale Cancer Support Centre.
I wanted to see how she got on, so I got in touch.
By my count, you’ve made 115 jars, smashing your original target of 50. How do you feel?
I feel overwhelmed. In no way, did I think I would be able to make more than 50 jars of jam and marmalade, the target I originally set with my son-in-law David. But all the support I’ve received spurred me on. I can’t thank people enough.
I enjoy making jam and marmalade. I’ve been doing it for years. But it’s challenging now, partly because of my age and partly as I have limited sight due to Macular Degeneration, and Rheumatoid Arthritis in both hands.
I was admitted to hospital twice last year, and I’m still recovering from the latest visit. I hope I can get back to making my jam and marmalade soon. As I’ve got orders coming in but I’m getting low on marmalade.
I’m extremely grateful to Lucy from the Nightingale Cancer Support Centre, who has made me labels for the jars. The only problem is, due to the Macular degeneration, I sometimes put the labels on upside down, so there’s the odd unique jar out there.
What keeps you motivated on difficult days?
I hit my target of 50 on 11/7/22 and the orders have continued to flood in, so I’ve kept going, and I love doing it.
Fundraising for a worthy cause and knowing my jams and marmalade will bring some enjoyment to others keeps me motivated.
Classic FM also keeps me going. I have it on in the kitchen.
You’re clearly a jam connoisseur. Have you got any top tips for our readers?
A little flora (the vegan one) in the jam helps to prevent foam from forming while cooking. I add a ½-teaspoon as soon as it starts. Otherwise, I have to skim off the foam with a spoon before adding the jam to the jars.
Cut up the fruit while it’s frozen. This will prevent the juice from staining your hands.
Weigh everything properly. Even a small variation will affect the process.
If you’d like to support Margaret, there’s still time. Click here to donate.
Or, if you’re looking for a community fundraiser to inspire volunteers like Margaret, drop us a line at info@amboofundraising.co.uk.