On January 22nd, 2025, CASE Training Hull proudly kicked off its 40th anniversary celebrations with a spectacular cheese and wine night. This memorable evening set the tone for a year-long celebration, marking four decades of making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with learning disabilities.
What an incredible evening it was, filled with joy, gratitude, and reflection. Held at a beautifully decorated venue, the event brought together a diverse group of attendees, including trainees, parents, guests, trustees, and staff. Among the distinguished guests were the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress, alongside our founders, Mary and Andrew, whose vision back in 1985 led to the creation of this vital organisation. Their presence made the evening all the more special, as we honoured their enduring legacy.
A Warm Welcome and Heartfelt Speeches
The evening commenced with warm welcomes and heartfelt speeches that set a celebratory yet reflective tone. The Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress expressed their admiration for the work CASE Training has accomplished over the years, highlighting its pivotal role in Hull’s community. Mark, CEO of CASE, delivered an inspiring speech, sharing stories of the transformative impact CASE has had on its trainees and their families.
Guests were treated to a delightful spread of cheese and wine, thoughtfully curated to enhance the celebratory atmosphere. Conversations flowed easily as attendees reminisced about the past, celebrated the present, and looked forward to the future of CASE Training. The event fostered a sense of community and unity, a testament to the organisation’s values and mission.
Media Spotlight: BBC Radio Humberside Coverage
Sally Fairfax from BBC Radio Humberside attended the event to interview trainees, colleagues, and their families for a special feature on the organisation. Her interviews offered a heartfelt glimpse into the personal journeys that make CASE Training so unique.
Listeners were given an inside look at the profound impact of the organisation during an interview with founders Mary and Andrew, which aired on BBC Radio Humberside last Friday. Their reflections on the journey of CASE, from its humble beginnings to its current achievements, were truly inspiring. The interview also included moving testimonials from trainees and their families, showcasing the organisation’s unwavering commitment to empowerment and inclusion.
For those who missed it, the interview can still be heard on BBC Sounds here at the following times:
- 53:09 – 57:54
- 01:17:35 – 04:30:48
This broadcast serves as a reminder of the incredible work being done at CASE Training Hull and the lasting impact it continues to have on so many lives.
A Poetic Tribute to 40 Years
One of the evening’s most touching moments came when a beautifully written poem was presented to Mary and Andrew. Encased in an elegant frame, the poem captured the essence of CASE Training’s mission and achievements over the past four decades. It read:
Forty years of breaking through,
Of building dreams, of seeing true.
Since 1985, we’ve walked this way,
With every step, a brighter day.
For every mind that learns its own pace,
For every triumph we proudly embrace,
We’ve stood as champions, fierce and strong,
Proving each voice has a place to belong.
Together we’ve shown what care can achieve,
In every person, there’s hope to believe.
Through learning, support, and love so sincere,
We celebrate this remarkable year.
Here’s to every heart we’ve reached,
To lessons shared and the dreams we’ve unleashed.
A legacy woven with purpose and grace,
Forty years strong – an extraordinary CASE.
The poem was met with warm applause and heartfelt emotion, perfectly encapsulating the organisation’s journey and vision. It stands as a poignant reminder of the hard work, dedication, and love that have gone into creating a legacy of empowerment and support.
Looking Ahead
As we reflect on this remarkable evening, it is clear that CASE Training Hull has much to celebrate. The Cheese and Wine Night was not only a joyous occasion but also a powerful reminder of the organisation’s roots and the countless lives it has touched over the years. This milestone marks the beginning of a year filled with exciting events and opportunities to celebrate CASE’s achievements and look to the future.
The success of the evening is a testament to the passion and commitment of everyone involved in CASE Training. From its founders to its trainees, staff, and supporters, this community has demonstrated the extraordinary things that can be achieved through dedication and care.
Here’s to 40 years of making a difference, and to many more years of growth, empowerment, and inclusion. CASE Training Hull stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared vision. Let the celebrations continue!