We Can Do the Whole Journey | Howard Lord Talks to Insider
News
Our founder, Howard Lord, recently spoke to Insider Media about the journey behind CERT Property,
The Christmas season is a time for joy, giving, and connection. For young care leavers, those transitioning out of the care system, this can be a particularly challenging time. To make the season brighter, Manchester City Council organised a special Christmas party, and we were honoured to support this inspiring initiative.
Rallying the Community
Our Hilton House community was instrumental in making this initiative a success. We rallied our tenants, and staff, inviting them to contribute in a meaningful way. Many individuals generously donated gifts, showcasing the power of collective kindness in creating a festive atmosphere. Some volunteered their time and effort to help organise and support the event. This collaborative spirit demonstrated the shared commitment within our community to support our wider neighbourhood.
Food has a unique way of bringing people together, and we wanted to ensure this event included a warm, festive meal. To make it happen, we collaborated with Eat Well Manchester, an organisation dedicated to providing food to those in need. With their help and a donation from CERT, care leavers enjoyed a delicious meal prepared by the talented chef Gary Weir. This act of sharing and nourishment added a special touch to the celebration.
Beyond the meal, the atmosphere of the event was brought to life thanks to the incredible collaboration between Eat Well Manchester and We Are Indigo, a PR company that stepped in to decorate the venue. Their efforts transformed the space into a magical and welcoming environment, filled with festive cheer. Additionally, Warehouse Project generously sponsored refreshments for the event. These contributions added extra layers of joy and community spirit to the celebration.
The Power of Collaboration
This initiative was made possible through the efforts of many, and we’re especially grateful to Saadiyah Bhayat for involving CERT in such a wonderful project. Witnessing the outpouring of generosity from our community was a heartwarming reminder of the power of working together to uplift those around us.
To everyone who contributed, thank you. Your kindness and generosity helped make this Christmas a memorable and joyful experience for young care leavers.
We’re committed to building meaningful connections and collaborating on initiatives that make a real impact in the communities we serve.
