Three Croydon-based organisations have been commended for their achievements through the prestigious King’s Award.
Local charities Advice Support Knowledge Information (ASKI) and Croydon Vision were awarded for Voluntary Service, while Kenley based confectioners Monty Bojangles won a King’s Award for Enterprise, in the International Trade category.
The commendations are given annually on the King’s birthday and The King’s Award for Voluntary Service is the highest award given to volunteer groups across the UK.
ASKI’s staff and volunteers support more than 800 people each year from its Community Connect Café and Dance and Events Centre. It provides learning, leadership, health, employability, social and arts programmes – such as older people’s lunch club and befriending.
Michelle Ford, ASKI’s Chair, said: “It is an honour for the work of our dedicated volunteers, many of whom are retired older people, to be recognised by His Majesty the King. Volunteers are the heart and soul of our organisation, selflessly devoting their time, energy, skills, and knowledge to uplift and support the most vulnerable members of our community. This is testament to community spirit and what can be achieved when communities work together.”
Croydon Vision supports people with vision and sight loss in Croydon – and this year celebrated 100 years of service, working towards a more inclusive and supportive environment for the visually impaired community.
Susanette Mansour, Chief Executive of Croydon Vision, said: “This award is a testament to the transformative impact volunteer groups can have on society. It serves as a call to consider the role we can individually and collectively play in creating supportive and strong communities through giving back. To all Croydon Vision volunteers, staff, supporters, and community — this award is as much yours as it is ours.”
Monty Bojangles, a Kenley-based confectionery company, won the first King’s Award for Enterprise, which was previously called The Queen’s Award for Enterprise. This was in recognition of its outstanding short-term growth, with overseas sales having achieved growth of 190% over the past three years.
Andrew Newlands, Monty Bojangles Founder and Managing Director, said: “We are delighted to have our hard work recognised, having been awarded The King’s Award for Enterprise: International Trade, with the award reflective of our outstanding growth in overseas sales. Having previously won the Queen’s Award for Enterprise: International Trade in 2018, it is an honour to have been awarded the prestigious title once again. Our work is far from over, however.”
“I’d like to congratulate all our Croydon-based organisations who have received the prestigious King’s Award. Through receiving the King’s Award for Voluntary Services, ASKI and Croydon Vision have demonstrated the abundance of generosity and community partnership in our borough. I also commend Monty Bojangles for being recognised once again for its work growing its business overseas and showcasing the entrepreneurship we have here in Croydon.”
Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon
The winners are invited to a Royal reception and presented with the awards at their premises by one of the King’s representatives, a Lord-Lieutenant. They are permitted to fly the King’s Awards flag at their main offices and use the emblem on their marketing materials.
