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Birthday Fundraising Project 2001 In 2001 the Ken-Friends again organised a fundraising project to collect money for our chosen charity - the Ulster Association of Youth Drama in Northern Ireland (a cause very dear to Kenneth Branagh). A keychain, commemorating the large group of Ken-Friends from 23 countries at this turn of the century, was created, produced and sold. The proceeds from the sale have been donated to UAYD and make it possible for talented youngsters in Northern Ireland to attend summer theatre training programs in Great Britain. Ken-Friends keychain In addition to the sale of keychains, and additional donations, funds were raised through a series of auctions of Branagh-related items held within the Ken-Friends mailing list. The amount raised this year was US$4,601, which constituted a donation to UAYD of £3,197.77.
This is the message Kenneth sent after receiving his birthday gift: Hello Everyone,Once again I find myself stunned by the generosity of the Ken-Friends in marking my birthday.
Not only the staggering sum of money which goes to such necessary and valuable use in Northern Ireland, but all the beautiful and generous messages in the cards I have received. I feel both proud and humbled by such a response. I thank you all from the bottom of my heart.
May I wish you all the merriest of Christmas's and look forward to seeing many of you from the stage in Sheffield during the run of "Richard III".
You are a wonderfully kind group of people.
Thank-you again.
Warmest wishes,
Ken Branagh
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