Live Well Loves... Ace of Clubs
Tucked away in the lively streets of Clapham, Ace of Clubs stands out as a beacon of hope. Since 1995, they've been at the heart of the community, offering a haven for those facing tough times. Our 'Give Well' initiative is all about supporting causes that truly make a difference, and we've been proudly backing Ace of Clubs for years. We're excited to share the incredible work they're doing. We caught up with Charlie Glynn, the Senior Support Worker, to chat about how Ace of Clubs, through joint effort, provides this vital community lifeline, driven by a shared mission to foster positive change.
Founded alongside a local church, Ace of Clubs transformed from a boys' school to a hub for aiding the homeless. Charlie tells us about the evolution of the centre, adapting to the growing needs of the community while retaining its foundational ethos. "It's about creating a club, a community for those often overlooked," she explains.
What sets Ace of Clubs apart as a community resource is that it offers much more than just a hot meal. During our first volunteering day, a tour around the facilities revealed a range of resources available to visitors, including medical support, legal assistance, laundry services, a selection of formal wear for job interviews, and a computer room. This variety of services is a testament to Ace of Clubs' commitment to going beyond the basics. How, with only a couple of full-time employees, does this institution manage to deliver these services every weekday throughout the year?
Ace of Clubs thrives on the support of local businesses and volunteers. Charlie highlights the crucial role that donations play, whether it's food from farms or daily collections from the local restaurants and supermarkets. Their savvy kitchen team rustles up nutritious and delicious meals from what’s available that day. 'Our strength lies in our community ties,' she emphasises, underscoring the importance of local involvement. The staggering impact of Ace of Clubs is evident in the 34,000 meals served and the assistance provided to over 100 individuals in finding stable housing.
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"It's a unique scenario, where more service users mean more people in need, and that’s not what we’re aiming for."
The team at Ace of Clubs orchestrates significant change daily and is open about the complex dynamics of running a charity. Despite the rewarding nature of their work, they face the constant challenge of increasing demand for services. 'It's a unique scenario,' she notes, 'where more service users mean more people in need, and that’s not what we’re aiming for.'
?Charlie shares her aspirations for the future of Ace of Clubs. Keeping it a safe, dependable sanctuary and adapting to the dynamic needs of the community remain central to their goals. 'Our mission continues to be about providing support, dignity, and a sense of belonging,' she affirms.
Here’s how you can support the work of Ace of Clubs: