Local charities have just a few days, until 31st October 2022, to apply for funding from the proceeds of the 2023 Saffery Rotary Walk.
Applications are welcome from any registered charities or non-profit making organisations in the Bailiwick. The project or item for which funding is sought must be clearly identifiable, with achievable and measurable outcomes.
Over the past 24 years, the Saffery Rotary Walk has donated more than £900,000 to a wide cross section of the Bailiwick’s charitable and non-profit making organisations. Last year, 17 good causes were selected by the organising committee, and the £70,000 raised by walkers and their sponsors was distributed to a variety of projects.
Simon Milsted, the chair of the Saffery Rotary Walk organising committee, said that they’re hoping for really big things in 2023: “It is the 25th Walk and is the 100th anniversary of Rotary in Guernsey. Given this, we expect a brilliant turnout from walkers prepared to enjoy the 39-mile challenge around Guernsey’s coastline and we hope that their generous sponsors will dig even deeper.
“Given this, we want as many charities and NPO’s as possible to use the next few days to get in a well-researched and deserving application for a distribution of the funds, so I urge people to apply without delay.”
Lisa Vizia, Saffery Champness Director and member of the Walk organising team said “The Saffery Rotary Walk is a great opportunity to give back to the local community and charitable causes. It’s easy to apply to be considered as a recipient of the fundraising efforts. We would love to see as many applications as possible, so we can support as many projects across the Bailiwick as we can and hope for it to be and hope to make it another record-breaking year.”
The sheltered workshop Grow was a beneficiary of a slice of this year’s funds. Jess Aughton from Grow said: “The money has been used to purchase two new plant trolleys. These are fantastic pieces of equipment that reduce the workload for our crew, enabling us to move large quantities of plants around the vinery with minimal effort, making light work of what would be a strenuous process and allowing everyone to be included in the task.”
Autism Guernsey LBG was another beneficiary from 2022 with funding for the delivery of their Social Eyes programme helping people on the autism spectrum to develop social skills and social understanding. Some of the feedback from one of participants on the course included “I think we are all getting more confident about discussing social issues – I know I certainly am.” And another said “I feel a weight has been lifted. Thank you so much. I can see a better future with me in it.”
All applications will be carefully reviewed, and the announcement made in the New Year about which charities will benefit from the 2023 walk. More details of the anniversary walk itself and how to take part, can be expected soon.
The Saffery Rotary Walk website has details on how to apply. If you have more specific questions on the application or process, please email here.
Pictured: The charities who benefited from the 2022 Saffery Rotary Walk
