The lives of children and young people were turned upside down in 2020. They needed Childline more than ever but at the same time, so many of the traditional fundraising activities on which we rely could not take place.
Thankfully, the true nature of people shone through as we came together in adversity and began virtual fundraisers for vital services. We are so grateful to everyone who ran marathons in their estates, kicked solos in their back gardens, cycled from Malin to Mizen and helped raise the funds we need to keep Chidline listening.
But as 2021 stretches before us, it’s clear that, although there is light at the end of the tunnel, we’ve quite a way to go before we step into it. We continue to receive up to 800 calls, texts and online contacts from children and young people daily seeking our support.
That’s where you come in. While it’s a wonderful thing to donate money or time to charity, have you ever thought about becoming a fundraiser?
If you’ve been feeling down or frustrated during yet another lockdown, doing a virtual fundraiser is a fantastic way to give your life a whole new purpose.
Here are just some of the benefits….
- You’ll feel amazing!
We all want to feel good about ourselves and that’s not always easy when we’re worrying about the state of the world or when we’ll be able to get back to work. Doing a virtual fundraiser will give you an extra incentive to get out of bed in the morning, plan your day and know that, despite your circumstances, you’re doing something that will benefit people’s lives. That’s pretty powerful stuff!
2. You’ll get your body moving
While some challenges involve baking or learning a new skill, it’s fair to say that most of them involve a physical element. It could be walking 10,000 steps a day, doing a plank challenge, yoga, running, dancing…anything!
Doing a physical challenge creates an excellent routine for you that will relieve stress, give you a rush of endorphins (happy hormones) and help you stay fit and healthy. That’s a win-win right there!
3. You’ll connect with more people
Doing a virtual fundraiser is a brilliant way to reconnect with people you might have lost touch with over the last few months or years. By putting your fundraising challenge on Facebook or Instagram, you’ll be amazed at who reaches out to donate to your cause, who sends you a DM to congratulate you on your work or just leaves a hearty ‘fair play’ in the comments!
4. You’ll be helping to keep our vital services afloat
We all need a purpose in life and for many people, the coronavirus has taken that away from them. Doing a virtual fundraiser for ISPCC Childline means that you are helping vulnerable children when they need us most. It’s been a tough year for everyone, but especially children who have had their routine, friends, education and freedom ripped away, perhaps without fully realising why.
Childline is there for every child and young person who wants to talk – whether it’s about Covid_19, their family and friends, their homework or just how bored they are. No issue is too big or too small.
Help us keep the lines of communication wide open to the children of Ireland. Sign up for a virtual fundraiser today – we bet you’ll be glad you did!