By Isle of Wight Observer
The IW Youth Trust has exceeded its £10,000 fund-raising target for its Winter Well-being campaign, and celebrated a national award win.
The campaign, supported through the Big Christmas Give, from December 2 to 9, brought together schools, parish councils, local family trusts, businesses, community groups, and individuals, from across the Island, all supporting young people’s mental health and well-being.
The fund-raising drive was launched with a festive drinks reception at Caffé Isola, which also marked the charity’s success at the GSK King’s Fund impact award. The IW Youth Trust was named overall winner from more than 700 charities nationwide, in recognition of its youth-centred mental health services and the impact of its work.
The event was attended by the charity’s patron, Rob da Bank, alongside business and community supporters. Guests enjoyed food and drinks sponsored by Eldridge’s Solicitors, live music from Platform One students. and photography by young Islanders. Speeches from chief executive, Jo Dare, and Youth Trust staff highlighted the importance of community backing. On the night, a raffle raised more than £700, with pledges and donations exceeding £1,175.
Dayna O’Brien, fund-raiser at the IW Youth Trust, said surpassing the Big Give target showed the strength of the charity’s mission and the level of local support, adding that the funds would make a real difference for young people on the Island.
Money raised will help young Islanders access the Youth Hub, receive one-to-one therapeutic support and take part in activities aimed at reducing isolation and loneliness, including ‘Snack and Chat’ for those aged 11 to 15, and ‘Level Up’ for those aged 16 to 25.