The Cartier Bereavement Charitable Trust has had a busier-than-usual year funding three funerals, and would like to publicly thank the gay community for its support. Fundraising fun: Delta Goodroot with Karen Ritchie "This has been an extremely busy 2008 - we have assisted with 3 funerals, making it 13 in total since our inception," says the HIV-related funeral funding charity's spokesperson Karen Ritchie. Auckland drag queen Bambi Slut had a very public send off earlier this year – fitting for an icon in the community, says Ritchie. "However, we appreciate that others leave quietly, without many people being aware. "We would like to take this opportunity to thank everybody for their hard work this year. There are many people who work in front and behind the scenes at all events. It is always hard to single out individuals and we always make sure we thank everybody on the night." 2008's events have been exceptional and as a result the community has helped raise $18,750, Richie explains. February's Hero Debate raised $600, the Heroic Gardens tour raised $9,500, Wigarama at Family bar netted $3,400, Bingo nights at Caluzzi raised $3,900, and $1,350 was raised through private donations. The Cartier Trustees - Karen Ritchie, Jonathan Thompson, Damien Moore, and recently elected Matt Jackson are planning to increase Cartier's profile in the community with an informative website soon. "At present we are waiting to hear back from The Perry Foundation for funding to create our website," explains Ritchie. "That way we can ensure we can communicate better with the community about the Trust - what it does; the support it provides and how you can apply for funding. "Our core purpose will always be to assist with funeral costs. Currently we are also exploring extending the scope of assistance to include those who are very unwell and support in the difficult later stages of life. "These are our thoughts, but the Trust belongs to the community and through our website we will be asking for ideas from you in relation to the future of the Trust," she says. "Remember, we appreciate the most special thing you can ever give people is your time. So, to all who have helped the Trust over the years you have given something really precious to our community."