RBL seeks organisers to lead this years Exeter Poppy Appeal
The Royal British Legion (RBL) is seeking a new Poppy Appeal Organiser (PAO) for this year’s Poppy Appeal in Exeter.
The RBL marked its 100th anniversary last year and welcomed back its fleet of Poppy volunteers after they were taken off the streets in 2020. The RBL is now looking for a new PAO (or a group of people) to help organise Poppy activities across the Exeter region, including the high street
Lauren Chilton - Community fundraiser said, “Our annual Poppy Appeal is a national event, and the general public are always very keen to wear their poppies proudly and give generously – this is truly a sight to behold.
“We really want to thank everyone across the area who got involved and supported the Poppy Appeal in 2021, but we have seen a reduction in the number of our organisers and collectors following the pandemic, but the RBL still has a job to do, and we are optimistic for this year.
The Royal British Legion is a champion of Remembrance and is responsible for the annual Poppy Appeal each year. Since it was first worn as an act of Remembrance just over 100 years ago, the poppy has become an enduring symbol of support for our Armed Forces, past and present.
Funds raised through the Poppy Appeal support current serving personnel, veterans, and their families, and the RBL is currently helping people who are isolated from family, feeling lonely, facing homelessness, struggling to feed their children or in financial crisis. Many of them never imagined they would have to ask for charity support.
From providing expert advice and guidance, to recovery and rehabilitation, through to transitioning to civilian life – with help from the community, the RBL can be by their side every step of the way.
The RBL’s annual appeal is dependent on volunteers to distribute poppies and to raise funds locally, but without a PAO to organise the activity, poppies will be limited in Exeter, especially the centre of the city.
With the support of your Community Fundraiser and the training and guidance provided by the Royal British Legion, the RBL are asking for volunteers in Exeter to step up this year and ensure the city centre can mark remembrance alongside the rest of the country.
RBL is keen to welcome new volunteers so that your community can continue to show their support to our Armed Forces Community, past and present.
The public is reminded that you don’t need to have a military connection to recognise the sacrifices our Armed Forces have given and continue to give for the rest of the public.
Lauren added “Our volunteers are more important than ever. Every year they play a critical role in every corner of the country to meet the huge public demand for our poppies, the nation’s symbol of Remembrance. The charity will give you all the information and training you need to be successful in the role. We will also provide support from your local Community Fundraiser and invest in you to gain experience volunteering for a national charity.
Anyone who would like to volunteer this year can contact Lchilton@britishlegion.org.uk / 07458010862 or visit our website: rbl.org.uk/poppyvolunteer
