Contributing back to the local community is a key part of what we are about at South Coast Social and we are proud to work closely with Julia’s House Children’s Hospice as our chosen corporate charity. Earlier this month we caught up with Corporate Fundraiser Caroline Attreed, who explained to us more about how the charity has adapted its care lately and introduced an exciting new programme of fundraising events for 2021 …
Julia’s House has kept on caring throughout the pandemic and just like everyone else, we’re all looking forward to lockdown restrictions easing and getting back to a bit of normality. Much of the vital care the nurses and carers provide to children with life-limiting conditions is still taking place in families’ homes – 87 of our children received care at home last month, more than any month since the end of 2019 when Coronavirus hit the headlines. Our hospices are now back open and the children have been enjoying one-to-one sessions and getting a much needed change of scene. The nurses and carers are still wearing PPE and taking regular COVID tests to give the families additional reassurance and confidence.
Just as the hospices have opened, we’ve started to roll out an exciting programme of fundraising events, including some new ideas for 2021.
We’ve all waited a long time for the chance to get together safely with friends and family, so when it came to creating our new physical challenge events we knew we had to provide a great opportunity to do just that. Designed with everyone’s safety in mind, the six carefully planned fundraising events are all either socially distanced or take place in small, COVID-secure groups to provide maximum reassurance. We also understand that for some people the thought of being in the midst of a larger group might be daunting, so we’ve made sure people can take part and fundraise for us at home with close friends as well as embrace an outdoor challenge in the company of other fundraisers.
These events are a crucial part of our fundraising year. After the first lockdown announcement, we had to take the decision to cancel all of our challenge events for 2020 which, along with the closure of our high street shops had a devastating effect on the charity’s finances. So we are really excited to be back out and about again and able to reveal what we’ve got planned for this summer and early autumn. Here’s some that you can get involved with:
Hike for your Hospice – 10-12 September
We’ve picked nine of the very best hiking routes across Dorset and Wiltshire with unforgettable views, legendary landmarks and distances and terrain to exhilarate every level of hiker. These guided hikes take place in groups of 30, starting and finishing at a country pub where you can celebrate your achievements with a delicious meal and a celebratory drink.
The Big Ride – 10 October
A firm favourite on the Julia’s House calendar, this event really lives up to its name, with big cycle routes, big climbs and big vistas. Starting and finish at Horton and Chalbury Village Hall near Wimborne, you’ll wind your way through some of the finest countryside In Dorset and Wiltshire. Choose from three circular routes of 25, 50 or 100 miles and upsize your cycling experience in a big way!
The Big Jump – 5 September
Thrill seekers look no further! Taking place at the Army Parachute Association near Salisbury you will feel the adrenaline rush as you jump from 13,000 feet and reach speeds of up to 120mph. You freefall for a minute before your instructor releases your parachute and you glide towards the ground. This is a tandem skydive so your instructor is in complete control of the jump throughout – all you need to do is take in all the spectacular views on the way down.
Run Bournemouth : 9-10 October
A vibrant atmosphere, fresh air and fabulous coastal views! There’s plenty for all ages and fitness levels from the challenge of a half marathon, to a 10k or 5k at Run Bournemouth, including junior races for children aged three to twelve, so your family can run for the families supported by Julia’s House. When you sign up you’ll receive one-to-one support from our friendly events team, a free running vest or T-shirt and access to a Fundraisers Facebook Group, where you’ll be kept updated and provided with plenty of tips to help with your fundraising.
Seven Wonders of the World
Running throughout the year, our brand new virtual fitness challenge gives you the chance to travel to some of the world’s most awe-inspiring destinations such as Machu Picchu, the Colosseum or the Great Wall of China. You can track your progress on our mobile app and explore the sights along the way on Google Street View as you run, walk, cycle or exercise your way to fitness. Complete each route and receive a medal on completion – or choose to challenge yourself to the max by taking on all seven routes!
Julia’s House Get Together
Our latest event launches at the end of June, to coincide with Children’s Hospice Week. The Julia’s House Get Together invites you to host a special event for your friends, families or colleagues this summer. It couldn’t be easier – choose a date and venue, pick a theme from a midsummer BBQ to a cocktail evening, invite your guests and in return ask them for donations that will provide care, comfort and support for our families. To get you inspired, our website has some great resources including recipe ideas, fundraising tips and a personalised invitation.
A big thank you to South Coast Social for their continued support on behalf of all the families we care for and thank you if you decide join the Julia’s House family and sign up to one of our events. We know you’ll have a great time in the knowledge that you’re also helping the children and families in our local community who need us the most. We want to continue to be here for the children and families across Dorset and Wiltshire who need us the most – not just now, but for years to come. We will be feeling the effects of the pandemic for some time, so your support couldn’t be more critical.
To sign up to any of these events and truly make a difference, visit juliashouse.org/events
Thank you.
