We’re absolutely delighted to share that one of our amazing Early Years Practitioners, Karen, has been nominated for the Fundraising Champion Award at this year’s The Emmas, which celebrate excellence across the charity events industry.
Earlier this year, as part of Springboard’s Big 40 Challenge marking our 40th anniversary, Karen set herself the personal challenge of walking every day for 40 consecutive days. What began as a goal of 64 miles – inspired by the 16 children and four key workers in her South Weston setting – soon became something even bigger.
By the end of her challenge, Karen had walked an incredible 87.9 miles, raised £1,010 from 52 generous supporters, and inspired colleagues, friends, family and our wider community through daily updates documenting her journey. Karen’s challenge wasn’t just about fundraising. Having experienced Springboard as a parent, trustee and now employee, she wanted to give back to a charity that has been such an important part of her life.
Her nomination couldn’t come at a more fitting time. This year’s Small Charity Week theme, “Small Charity. Big Impact.”, celebrates the incredible difference that small charities – and the people who support them – make every single day. Karen’s story is a perfect example of that. One person’s commitment has raised vital funds, increased awareness of Springboard’s work and, in practical terms, raised enough to help fund a day of specialist support in our South Weston setting, giving children with SEND the very best foundations for lifelong learning.
Karen’s achievement reminds us that fundraising isn’t always about doing something extraordinary – it’s about doing something meaningful, sharing your story and inspiring others to get behind a cause you believe in.
Congratulations, Karen, on your well-deserved nomination, and thank you for everything you have done for Springboard. We are incredibly proud of you and wish you the very best of luck at The Emmas!
Fancy taking on your own Big 40 Challenge?
Our Big 40 Challenge is still open, and we’d love for you to get involved. Whether it’s walking, baking, cycling, crafting or creating your own unique challenge, every pound you raise helps children with SEND and their families thrive.
Visit www.justgiving.com/campaign/thebig40challenge or email info@springboardweb.org.uk to find out more. We’d love to hear your ideas!
Karen celebrating the end of her challenge and 87.9 miles, with family and friends at Springboard Clevedon.
