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ARCAID AGM 2009

This year's Arcaid AGM was held in the Parish Centre on Wednesday November 18th. It was a special meeting as members celebrated 20 years of Arcaid. Fr Paul Jennings opened the meeting with a prayer.

Chairman Andrew Torjussen set about “whipping through the admin” section of the meeting. Firstly there were some much-needed amendments to the Constitution which were presented by Peter Davis and accepted with no objections by the members present. Treasurer Melanie Feibusch followed with her report that in 2009 £38,689 was donated to a variety of causes. A full list of projects can be seen by clicking on this link.

Chairman Andrew Torjussen then gave his report on the year's activities emphasising the many varied projects and locations where Arcaid makes a contribution. He pointed out how quickly the Arcaid Trustees can react to needs by keeping in contact using e-mail and not waiting for the next formal meeting.

The formal part of the evening ended with the election and re-election of Trustees and Officials. Angela Sleet was thanked for her work as secretary and all wished her well with her new home and job. Jennifer Davis has agreed to take over as secretary. New member Robert Gilmour was welcomed on to the Committee. .

The formal business over, the audience was treated to an illustrated talk given by Sheila and Ron Potter, long-term parishioners. They told us about their three trips to Ilfunda in Tanzania. There they were able to share not only their teaching skills but solve a problem with water flow to the new well. It was through their encouragement that St Polycarps School has been able to twin with a school in Ilfunda. Ron and Sheila were instrumental in suggesting the following donations from Arcaid for the vocational School: Welding masks, goggles, wood for chairs, a football and netball. Ron took a special interest in encouraging the students to wear the goggles. The chairs were constructed by students in the vocational college for the teachers use in their staff room. Arcaid is currently sponsoring 2 students to attend the boarding school on Ilfunda with a third student soon to be sponsored. These students are often orphans and appreciate the opportunities that a good education will give them.

Mariola Boyd gave a vote of thanks to the Potterson their informative and entertaining presentation. The Arcaid committee were pleased to hand a cheque for £500 to them for the further support of the schools in Ilfunda.

It was a most enjoyable, interesting and informative evening and all who attended were pleased to hear how Arcaid is thriving. The evening ended with a special cake to celebrate 20 years since Arcaid was founded.

Arcaid would like to encourage anyone who is interested in finding out more about Arcaid projects or who would like to become a contributor to contact Arcaid by email.

What is ARCAID?

It is a small, independent overseas aid charity, based in the Catholic Parish of St. Joan of Arc, Farnham, Surrey. It was founded in 1989.

Why do we need ARCAID when there are plenty of other overseas aid charities such as CAFOD?

 ARCAID offers a more personal way of giving. It brings the giver closer to the person in need, making that person a 'neighbour' and a particular subject of prayer.

How does ARCAID do this?

By getting to know most of the people to whom it sends aid - missionary and native priests, nuns and lay persons, medical workers etc. - and even by inviting them to visit Farnham, when possible, and speak about their work.

 ·By finding out exactly what help they need and sending money, or goods such as medicines, specifically to provide that help.

 ·By keeping in touch with them and telling ARCAID members exactly where their money goes and how it is used.

So where does the money go?

Mostly on small projects, such as wells for clean water, for which ARCAID can find the full cost. This lessens the risk of wasting money on projects left unfinished for lack of funds. ARCAID has sent aid, from a few hundred to several thousand pounds worth to more than 30 poor countries across the world. It also contributes, from time to time, to emergency (eg famine) appeals.

Who takes the decisions?

A committee of trustees elected by the members. Members are also welcome to propose projects. Some make donations on condition that they go to a particular project.

How much of the money goes on expenses?

None. ARCAID'S modest size enables it to absorb all its running costs. Every penny given to ARCAID goes to the poor, except for small amounts in bank charges for transferring money overseas.

How does one join?

Simply by giving, occasionally or regularly, in any amount one chooses. Most people give by banker's order, monthly, quarterly or annually, and most of these make covenants or Gift Aid declarations which enable ARCAID to obtain valuable tax refunds. Charity cheques and Give As You Earn are other tax-efficient methods. Parishioners of St Joan of Arc have the option of giving cash in envelopes placed in the church collecting plate. Click here for donation form which can be printed.


For more information please e-mail any member of the committee. Committee members are:

Andrew Torjussen (Chairman), Mariola Boyd(Vice Chairman), Jenifer Davis(Secretary). Peter Davis(in advisatory capacity), Robert Gilmour, Melanie Feibusch, Mary Nolan, Frances Thompson, Ron Potter, Francesca Bois.




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