Three leading Suffolk businessmen have become patrons of Inspire Suffolk to help promote the charity’s vital work with young people.
John Howard, the property developer behind the Ipswich Winerack, Pat Lewis, managing director of Source One Consulting, and Peter Osborne, managing director of TA Hotel Collection, have pledged to support the Ipswich-based sports and educational charity.
They join former Ipswich Town captain Matt Holland, Olympian Bill Tancred, and sports presenter Georgie Bingham as patrons.
They will provide strong links to the Suffolk business community, helping to increase work experience opportunities, workplace taster sessions and one-to-one mentoring advice.
Mr Howard said: “I have seen first-hand that such initiatives really can make a difference.
“This opportunity will allow me to continue to support a charity that I have always been so proud to be part of, by helping to make a positive impact on those young people who need it the most.”
Inspire Suffolk works with young people who are NEET (not in employment, education or training) and other young people, such as those with physical and learning disabilities, through various programmes.
Mr Lewis said: “Helping young people has been a theme for much of our community work and Inspire Suffolk are a leading light in what they are achieving every day. We were happy to donate office furniture and furnishings to help refurbish their classroom and meeting rooms and look forward to working with Inspire Suffolk over the coming years.”
The charity needs £1million to run every year, and relies on public support and donations.
Mr Osborne said: “I am delighted with the opportunity to join Inspire Suffolk’s hard working team and help make a difference in our local community.
“We already have plans to expand our level of commitment to this very important charity over the coming months.”
Terry Baxter, chief executive of Inspire Suffolk, said: “We are extremely pleased to have John, Pat and Peter join us as business patrons of our charity.
“They are fantastic assets to the wider Suffolk business community and we are certain that they will use their influence, expertise and energy to help promote our fundamental work with young people.”
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