JDDK Millmount News Winter Edition 2023 DIGITAL S8 (SINGLE PAGES) - Flipbook - Page 27
JDDK team at the ABS paint and sip, at the Magical Hat Cafe
Volunteering
Celebrating 173 years of ABS
Architects Benevolent Society (ABS) is one of the longest established
occupational benevolent funds, providing support for the wider
architectural profession in times of need. As we look to celebrate 173
years of ABS, we’d like to shine a light on the dedication and commitment
of our ABS ambassador and Trustee, Alison Thornton-Sykes, JDDK’s
Principal Architect.
Judging of JDDK’s Bake the World a Better Place competition
Thanks to Alison’s active role in the network of Northeast Ambassadors
for ABS, the fund is a cause we are deeply invested in as a team. As
part of her extensive fundraising efforts, Alison has coordinated a host
of engaging fundraising events and incentives, including our ‘Bake the
World a Better Place’ bake sale and our popular Tyne Bar Quiz Night
events earlier in the year.
In November, Alison helped organise a Paint and Sip fundraising evening
at Magic Hat Cafe, led by local artist Mark Bletcher, and arranged for the
JDDK team to participate in Time2Sketch, which encouraged everyone
to step away from their desks for an hour and sketch something close
to their hearts. The events brought together mindfulness, creativity, and
wellbeing, aligning with ABS’ focus on mental health support.
ABS Quiz Night
Alison’s role goes beyond hosting fundraising events and extends to
raising awareness of ABS’ advice, support, and assistance services
across the architectural community and their families. Recently,
Alison spoke at the Young Architectural Practitioners Forum (YAPF)
in Newcastle, where she introduced ABS and its mental health and
wellbeing support. Looking ahead, with JDDK’s support Alison is hoping
to build on fundraising events in the Northeast and encourage greater
engagement throughout the wider ABS community.
Winter 2023. Millmount. 27