iSightCornwall’s 2023 AGM proves to be a success

iSightCornwall’s 166th annual general meeting proved to be a resounding success when it took place in October as we welcomed more people than ever before.

Returning to St Erme Community Centre once again, the main hall was packed with more than 100 members, clubs and volunteers who attended to help shape the future of iSightCornwall as well as enjoy an afternoon of activities and entertainment.
The morning saw a speech from Chief Executive Carole Theobald who welcomed attendees and gave a brief overview of the charity’s activities this past year including the launch of our Be the Difference, See the Difference campaign, the success of the Walking Buddies scheme and the addition of new staff to the team.

Voting

The microphone was then handed to Chair of Trustees, Ian McCormick who led the voting on motions including accepting previous minutes, the annual reports, and the election of trustees to the Board of Directors.
Vice-Chair and Finance trustee, Clare Green also gave an overview of iSightCornwall’s finances and explained the cause of recent financial challenges as well giving an outlook for the future.

Volunteer Awards

Following the closure of the AGM portion of the day, Carole presented the 2023 Volunteer Awards where the dedication of some of iSightCornwall’s 133 volunteers was celebrated. A range of volunteers were awarded a certificate and an iSightCornwall badge, from Walking Buddies to drivers to club organisers.
There were three categories of awards, Outstanding Contribution for those volunteers who had reached a milestone in their time with iSightCornwall, Special Recognition for those volunteers who had gone above and beyond in their volunteering and a Member’s Choice award which was presented to the volunteer chosen by iSightCornwall members.

Musical performances

Following the awards, attendees were entertained by a musical performance from iSightCornwall member, Chris Jewell. Representing the Guitar Club, Chris showed off his musical prowess with a range of guitar work, singing and even some comedy.
Proceedings then took a break for the all-important pasty lunch before the entertainment continued with singing from the BLIS (Blind in Song) Singers. Bringing some iconic Cornish songs to the day, attendees were encouraged to join in with Lamorna, Cornwall My Home and, of course, Trelawny.

Bingo

The excitement continued with the return of bingo with Paddy, iSightCornwall member and BUGS Club member kindly stepping up to be the caller. Prizes were up for grabs for four corners, a line and a full house with the grand prize going to volunteer Jill Raftry who is the club organiser for both Launceston Lunch Club and BUGS club.
After the bingo fun, the tables were cleared to make room for Townsend Dance Club members to show off their moves whilst also giving attendees the opportunity to join in. Chief Executive Carole, trustee Kerry and team member Jodi all took part as well as many of the other members and volunteers in attendance.

Brought to a close

The day was then brought to a close with a speech from Carole, thanking all of those who attended and for everyone’s support of iSightCornwall.

Speaking after the event, Carole said: “I was so pleased with how successful our 166^th AGM was, I hope everyone who attended had as much fun as I did. I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who came along, to the volunteer drivers who ensured our members could attend, to the trustees for joining us, Paddy for his fantastic bingo calling and Jill and Paul who organised the pasties we all enjoyed for our lunch.

“Our AGM is such a wonderful occasion as we can share what we have been up to throughout the year but also hear the stories and experiences of our members and volunteers. Thank you and we will see you on Friday, October 11^th to do it all over again next year!”

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