Charity boss in ambitious project celebrating female entrepreneurs

Pam Gilligan, the CEO of Compassion in Action, was selected to take part in #SheCan365.
Compassion in Action CEO Pam GilliganCompassion in Action CEO Pam Gilligan
Compassion in Action CEO Pam Gilligan

The online project told the stories of 365 women involved in businesses or charities over 365 days in exactly 365 words.

And now, thanks to a Kickstarter campaign, the online site has been turned into a book.

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Based at Patrick House in Leigh, Compassion in Action provides a whole range of activities and services for the community, including sessions to help integrate vulnerable people back into everyday life, a foodbank and packages of furniture and clothing for families and individuals in need.

The cover of the Kickstarter-funded book #SheCan365The cover of the Kickstarter-funded book #SheCan365
The cover of the Kickstarter-funded book #SheCan365

Pam was one of the 365 women chosen out of thousands of applicants to be included on the #SheCan365 website and spoke of her delight and pride at being involved.

She said: “Out of all the female entrepreneurs in the UK, I am honoured to have been chosen to be included in the #SheCan365 project, which is a world first.

“In these times of austerity, it is more important than ever for charities to adopt an entrepreneurial mindset to remain financially viable.

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“The community services that Compassion in Action has developed and continue to deliver are well-evidenced and meet the needs of the people.

“Accountability, evidence and sustainability – together with a board and staff team with the same vision and passion for the work of the charity – are key factors for our success.

“Since Compassion in Action was founded in 2006, we have had belief and support from many amazing partners – including Wigan Council, Wigan Borough CCG, the North West oroughs Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust and many companies, schools and communities throughout the borough.

“Our partnerships are a shining example of how businesses can work positively with charities to meet the needs of people.”

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The #SheCan365 project began when multi-award-winning online marketing specialist Helen Pritchard challenged former journalists Michelle and Christian Ewen to publish a new, inspiring story online every day for an entire year.

Within 48 hours, Helen financed and built the #SheCan365 website in her capacity as host and the project officially launched on International Women’s Day 2019.

The contributors ranged from women in charities and start-ups to entrepreneurs leading seven-figure ventures and the stories discussed subjects including health and fertility issues to family life, identity crises and financial battles.

The team has now raised more than £9,500 on Kickstarter to publish the whole collection in a coffee table-style book.

The venture is also supporting national breast cancer awareness charity CoppaFeel!

To find out more or buy a copy of the book, visit www.shecan365.com