The First Fundraising Event
On 9th September 2005 the first fundraising event for Tree Of Life For Animals took place. Event organiser, Jenny James looking resplendent in her sari, did a brilliant job of arranging the hire of the ‘Golden Jubilee’, a boat that would take us up and down the Thames on a tour of London by night.
Indian Summer Boat Party
There was a lovely spread of oriental snacks plus a free drink at the bar for all the ticket holders. Despite a slight chill in the air everybody enjoyed the views as we floated down the Thames taking in all the sights such as the London Eye, Tower Bridge and Big Ben all spectacularly lit up.
We enjoyed a speech by Gary, a volunteer who had recently returned from visiting Rachel and helping the charity during a busy neutering and vaccination project. He had had a great experience and explained what a difference was being made to help the lives of animals in Rajasthan, India.
Following this a raffle was held. Everyone who bought a raffle ticket had a chance of winning some fantastic prizes such as a bottle of champagne, a gold bracelet and necklace, a meal for two at a thai restaurant or a £25 cash prize. Thanks to Nina for collecting most of the great prizes and Hadyn, Rachels Grandad for being our raffle host.
Afterwards the boat DJ continued playing the songs to get everyone onto the dancefloor where we all danced until midnight.
It was a brilliant night and everyone had enjoyed themselves as well as raising money for a worthwhile cause.
I would like to say many thanks to everyone who came and donated their time, money or a raffle prize. We would like it to become an annual event and we hope to see everyone again soon.
Jenny - Boat Party organiser with Gary, a TOLFA volunteer and Pete who has set up the TOLFA website
