As we look back on the past year, we want to say thank you for the support we’ve received from fundraisers, volunteers, corporate partners, and community supporters. Their commitment, efforts and passion have allowed us to support even more children and families through trauma recovery and mental health services.

Our supporters have gone above and beyond, from marathons and cycling challenges to creative fundraising initiatives. We’d like to take a moment to celebrate their remarkable achievements in 2024 and look forward to an exciting year ahead!

Running and walking towards a brighter future

This year, our runners and walkers embodied resilience and determination, turning their miles into smiles. Their commitment ranged from seasoned marathoners pushing their limits to first-time participants inspired to make a difference.

Our challengers raised vital funds and championed the importance of children’s mental health, sparking conversations at events and inspiring others to join the cause.

Each participant brought a personal motivation to their challenge. For some, it was about giving back or honouring a loved one. For others, it was a way to champion a cause close to their hearts: “I wish there was support like this for me when I was growing up.”

Two passionate supporters took on an ultra-walking challenge with a hugely heartwarming story, sharing: “We took on the Kent Downs 50 Ultra Challenge in memory of our mum who worked with children.”

We love hearing the reasons behind the inspiration behind someone taking on a challenge. We are already looking forward to new events in 2025 and hearing even more inspiring stories from our challengers.

Cycling from Essex to Amsterdam

In June, 30 cyclists embarked on a remarkable 140-mile journey from Essex to Amsterdam, raising over £35,000. Over two days, the team navigated beautiful Essex villages, crossed to the Hook of Holland, and cycled along Dutch coastlines, finishing at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam.

Riders joined us from local businesses and organisations, others were individuals cycling in aid of a cause close to their hearts – united in their goal to support children’s mental health.

Our CEO and Founder, Sue Bell OBE DL, gave the team words of encouragement before they set off, reminding them of the children at the centre of our work, saying:

“By taking on this challenge, you are making such a huge difference for those children.”

Stuart Belbin from Ascend told us:

“It’s about giving kids the tools they need to face life’s challenges head-on.” Hear what others had to say.

Milestone events and welcome community support

This year has been filled with standout moments, thanks to the creativity and dedication of our supporters. Here are some highlights:

• Fundraising Ball success: Our Autumn Ball raised an incredible £28,000, with 183 attendees coming together for an evening of celebration and giving. A huge thank you to our sponsors, Joyce Solutions, Barker Associates, Matchroom, and Baker Labels (to name just a few!) for making it a night to remember.

• Big Give Christmas Challenge: In less than five days (out of seven), we smashed our £10,000 target and then went on to raise a bonus £5,000 match funding thanks to the generosity of our supporters. Every extra pound raised in our matching funding appeals helps us make a difference for children and families.

• Pam’s weekly market stall and other community events: Week after week, Pam’s dedication to her market stall, where 100% of proceeds support our cause, is still going strong after many years. Pam has made herself a valued part of the team at Chelmsford Market and is a huge advocate for us.

From craft sales to community events, the Essex community’s support has been amazing. Thank you to everyone who has contributed!

Recognising outstanding contributions

We are thrilled to honour the incredible achievements of our supporters through a range of awards that recognise their dedication and impact in helping Kids Inspire achieve its mission. This year’s awards celebrate the exceptional efforts of individuals, teams, and community champions who went above and beyond. Here are the highlights:

• Fundraiser of the Year
  This year’s award goes to Reiss Rasmussen who ran in the Big Half marathon around London, demonstrating remarkable dedication and passion. Thank you for your outstanding efforts to support Kids Inspire!

• Fundraising Team of the Year
  Our Essex to Amsterdam Cycling Team pedalled their way to this well-deserved recognition. Their incredible teamwork and drive made a significant impact in raising vital funds.

• Corporate Team of the Year
  A big congratulations to Joyce Solutions, named our Corporate Team of the Year! With years of continued support, they truly shone this year by hosting their third Golf Day in aid of our work.

• Fundraising Volunteer of the Year
  This award goes to Ceri Gray, whose tireless efforts with foreign currency and coin counting have been invaluable to our fundraising activities. Your behind-the-scenes work is deeply appreciated!

• Community Champion of the Year
  Kathy Vale from Morrisons of Maldon has been named this year’s Community Champion of the Year. Their support for our Christmas Appeal has brought joy and comfort to countless children and families during the festive season.

• Community Fundraiser of the Year
  The team at High Roding Art takes this award for their phenomenal fundraising efforts. Through their artistic endeavours, they’ve raised funds to support art therapy sessions that make a meaningful difference in the lives of the children we serve.

• Community Event of the Year
  Street, Eats ‘n’ Beats, organised by Julia McClean brought the community together with her vibrant and heartwarming event, earning Julia and her team the title of Community Event of the Year.

Each of these awards represents the heart and soul of what we do at Kids Inspire - bringing people together to create positive change. Congratulations to all this year’s winners!

2024/25 National Lottery grant

A significant highlight this year was receiving a £1 million grant from the National Lottery. This funding will allow us to expand our services further into Suffolk (starting with Ipswich) communities, reaching even more children and families in need.

Looking ahead to an exciting year

As we celebrate this year’s achievements, we’re already gearing up for an even bigger 2025. Highlights include:

• Brentwood Half Marathon (March): Take on this run or look at others coming up in the year!

• Local Cycle Ride (September TBC): Be part of another unforgettable cycling journey.

• Other Fundraising events: Bookmark this page to stay up to date with fundraising fun in support of Kids Inspire.

Thank you for making a difference

To everyone who has supported us - whether by running, cycling, volunteering, mentoring, or donating - thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Together, we are transforming lives, empowering young people, and building stronger communities.

Here’s to another year of making a difference, together!