Last week marked the official launch of BBC Children in Need's Appeal and the Charity is getting geared up for another fantastic year.
The launch featured Sir Terry Wogan, Matt Baker, Gary Barlow, Nick Grimshaw, Alex Jones, JLS and Union J who have given their time and talent to kick-start our campaign and inspire thousands of people to get involved.
Being part of Appeal every autumn is an amazing experience as people come together to have fun with the simple aim of giving children across the UK a better childhood.
The need for our funding is real and urgent, importantly our ability to make a difference is all down to the incredible generosity, imagination and commitment of our supporters.
BBC Children in Need is currently funding over 2,700 projects working with disadvantaged children and young people across the UK. The last two years have been our most successful years ever, but even with £45 million to award this year we still have to turn down two applications for every one we support.
Our projects are helping children and young people living in poverty or deprivation, those struggling with home or school life, those coping with illness and those dealing with the trauma of a death.
We have helped give independence to disabled children and young people, supported those who have fallen victims of abuse or neglect and provided a safe haven for those with no-where else to turn. We have guided young people, inspired, increased expectations and the making of safe decisions whilst encouraging education, fun and marked the importance of friendship.
Our aim each year is to deliver an exciting campaign full of fun and entertainment, but we never lose sight of our vision to ensure that every child in the UK has a safe, happy and secure childhood and the chance to reach their potential.
We have pulled together some old and new ideas in our Fundraising Pack, which is also full of hints and tips to get you started. We need you and if you want this year to be the one you become a local fundraising hero head to bbc.co.uk/pudsey to download it.
For all of us at BBC Children in Need the next few weeks will be a mix of excitement and anxiety as we build towards Appeal Night. I would like to thank everyone who will be part of it in whatever way. You should be really proud of the difference you make!
Every penny donated to BBC Children in Need is used to support projects helping disadvantaged children and young people in the UK. This is possible as the Charity's running costs are met from investment income, Gift Aid and product sales.
This year, the BBC Children in Need fundraising extravaganza will culminate in the Appeal Show on BBC One on Friday 15 November, 7pm.