Latvian–born, Lisa Jevsejenko, looking to volunteer her skills, was attracted to the opportunity. Qualified in finance and accountancy, she certainly had the skills. She gives her reason for getting involved: ‘’When I saw photos of the children in a Lovey presentation, I cried. I knew I had to support its mission. I too have been to school without appropriate clothes – and even lunch. I had to walk to college and back (over an hour each way) as I lacked money for the bus fares.”
In addition to keeping financial records, there were two important tasks needing Lisa’s help. The community based organisation was preparing an application to HMRC for Gift Aid status, and would later, after sufficient growth, apply to the Charity Commission for England and Wales to become a registered charity.
“I completed the last year’s financial statement and am helping to register the Foundation with HMRC," says Lisa. “I believe that my being involved in financial records allows other Lovey Foundation members the opportunity to spend more time on fundraising events, public relations and liaison with our team in Ghana.”
The Board not only plan the fundraising initiatives, they actively participate. Melvyn, when we talked to him, was busy getting ready to run a sponsored 10K run the next day - his third for the Foundation.
Such efforts have enabled it to supply the children in Bawku Municipal District, Ghana, with the uniforms, sandals, backpacks, notebooks and text books they need to go to school. Funds raised also buy the fabric for Bawku tailors to make their uniforms, creating employment opportunities.