Today we can call ourselves the Shropshire Business Awards 2017 “Business in the Community” winner!
We were finalists in the same category last year when the winning title quite deservedly went to Henshalls, but 2017 was our year.
So why did we go in for it?
We support many local community organisations and charities, and like most businesses – just do it! Despite being a PR agency we very rarely shout about what we do as we are too busy shouting about what our amazing clients do, but this year we thought it was time we did – feedback from the judges last year was that they were very impressed and we were deserved runners up.
From leading the publicity and event management of the first British BMX Series to be held in Telford, organising the Kids Zone at Shropshire County Show to being a Parent Governor at a Telford primary school and Chair of a Shrewsbury pre-school – team J&PR do it all.
And then we are never shy when it comes to a challenge – get in a coracle and get yourself to the other side of the River Severn and back; walk up Snowdon; Race for Life; Midnight Walk; trek in the blistering heat across the Brecon Beacons with 35lbs on your back – all in the name of charity.
And of course being based in the Telford & Wrekin CVS building we just can’t help ourselves but make sure the charities know what they should be doing to promote themselves so we offer courses and free advice right on their doorstep.
Our two directors are the founders of Shropshire’s Businesses for Children Awards set up to recognise the amazing work of organisations and charities which provide an education, support or activity to children and young people across the county. Preparing for its fourth year in 2018 – the awards has been a great success.
When we started preparing our award entry we realised squeezing everything into the entry would be tough. Presenting it to the judges in a short space of time was difficult too – especially as everyone knows how much Kirsty and Rhea talk once they get going!
Thankfully the judges saw the passion, enthusiasm and love for what J&PR does for the community and gave us the winning title.
After being presented with the award, sponsored by TTC Group, we were asked what difference the contribution businesses like J&PR make?
We said DIY SOS – the story of local boy Matthew Cooper was a prime example. The amazing transformation of his home could not have taken place without local businesses giving up their time and energy for free. Sports clubs and community groups would not work without people giving up their time and giving something back.
We were lucky enough to be award ceremony guests of Chamber patrons Chrisbeon on Friday and we had a wonderful night. Thanks to Salop Design and Engineering for producing such a fantastic award trophy this year.
The email has been hot this morning with messages from clients past and present, along with our wonderful friends from networking across the county, congratulating us – thank you!
Award winning or not – make sure you take the time out to recognise the wonderful work you do within your business.
