The achievements of local young fundraisers are being championed in a new scheme launched by Julia’s House, the Dorset and Wiltshire children’s hospice charity.
During the last year the charity has seen an increase in the number of young people wanting to do their bit to support the families cared for by Julia’s House.
Children like eleven-year-old Angel Younger of Poole, who ran more than 131k in 31 days to raise £1,441.50 for the charity, and ten-year-old Zak Quinton-Jones, who walked ten miles from Hengistbury Head to the Sandbanks chain ferry, raising close to £500.
Zak’s mum, Hayley Quinton, says, “Zak decided to raise money for Julia’s House because they help so many children and their families, and he wanted to give something back. The most challenging part was spreading the word as he wanted to raise as much money as possible. We are so grateful to everyone that has taken the time to support and sponsor Zak.”
Zak, who lives in Poole, adds, “I’m really proud of myself because sometimes the walk was tough. I stayed positive though and kept the charity in mind every step of the way. If anyone is thinking about becoming a young fundraiser for Julia’s House I would say go for it, have fun and do your best!”
Anyone aged 16 and under who fundraises for Julia’s House will automatically enter the Young Fundraisers scheme, completing their first fundraising event to receive a Level 1 certificate and badge, before progressing through the levels with each subsequent event.
“We wanted to champion the difference young fundraisers make to Julia’s House and celebrate their commitment and support. The money they raise has a big impact on the children and families we care for,” says Alex Wilcox, Public Fundraising Assistant for Julia’s House.
“The new Young Fundraisers scheme acknowledges their great contribution and hopefully provides them with a really positive experience of fundraising. We would love local children and young people to continue to fundraise for us and encourage them to take their spirit of giving with them as they grow older, which feels an important message at the moment.”
Julia’s House looks after the most seriously ill children across Dorset and Wiltshire, providing vital respite breaks to exhausted parents and supporting worried and anxious siblings. Many of these children have complex and often rare medical conditions which require 24-hour care, and in lots of cases are not expected to live beyond early adulthood.
Learn more about becoming a Julia’s House Young Fundraiser.
