You may remember that from late last year through to Easter, we held a number of fundraising events for our Community Fund, including:
- An Open Day & Raffle
- A Games Night
- A Zumba Glow Party
- An Easter/Spring Raffle
- And of course, Hayley running the London Marathon!
Thanks to the generosity of participants, sponsors and donors, we raised over £4,000.
The Community Fund was set up to support local clubs and organisations with sport and leisure activities at the Leisure Centre.
How the Fund is Already Making a Difference
Cheese & Pickle Pickleball Club
We helped organise and provide two taster sessions for this (relatively) new sport which is taking the country by storm. From these sessions, the new ‘Cheese and Pickle’ Club was born and already has over 40 registered members! To help get the club established we covered the rental costs for a number of weeks so that they could use their own money towards all the other startup costs.
Age Concern Balance & Chair Based Exercise Classes
We’ve long partnered with Age Concern North Dorset to deliver much-in-demand balance classes. Now, thanks to the Fund, we’ve paid for the instructor training needed to launch new Chair-Based Exercise Classes starting this September.
What’s Next?
We’re planning a ‘free-to-attend’ inflatable fun day for families of all ages during the October Half Term – more details to follow.
Other Ways the Fund Could Support Local Groups
As well as what we have already done, some examples of other kinds of things the fund could support are:
- Helping a Guides/Scouts group work towards a sports or fitness badge by providing facilities or instructors.
- Bringing in specialists for unique activities not usually available locally (e.g. archery, Nerf wars, mobile climbing wall).
Apply For Support
Applications for funding can be submitted to SturFit in writing or by email.
Donations and Fundraising
While we don’t currently have specific fundraising events planned, donations are always welcome. Every contribution helps us keep funding free and accessible community activities.
If you’ve enjoyed or benefited from any of the activities supported by the Fund, please consider making a donation so we can continue investing in the health and wellbeing of our community.