Positive Steps

Since our last update, our own Events team have been working with a group of 6 young people to plan, organise and run a fundraising event for Teens Unite.

The type of event and subsequent planning was decided between the group, with the guidance of Teens Unite and support of the venue.  One of our Foundation partners supported the team to help with

• Venue (at cost)
• Event date
• Outline costings
• Event support

The young people needed to :

• Research and decide on the 'type’ of event
• Set out the event purpose (to raise funds and awareness for Teens Unite)
• Work with venue throughout the programme – event team, décor, catering etc.
• Outline target audience
• Set out cost projections
• Source raffle/ auction prizes/
• Decide whether the event will be ticketed or invitation only?
• Create marketing material
• Decide on event design and outline any additional costs?
• Set and execute an event promotion plan
• Pre event briefing
• Set up and run event

We were delighted that the event – Raise a Glass – was a huge success.  The Teens hosted the event at the prestigious Wardorf Hotel, in the cocktail bar, The Parrot.  There were more than 50 invited guests, who enjoyed cocktails and mocktails created by the Teens. They enjoyed canapes carefully selected for them and took part in a raffle.  The team raised an incredible £1700 for the Charity, but more importantly they achieved a whole host of key objectives. They 

• Were encouraged to think positively about life with and beyond their illness
• Developed skills such as teamwork, organisational skills, communication (verbal and written), and public speaking
• Gained an insight into a diverse range of careers in the Hospitality Industry and experienced the working world
• Rebuilt confidence and motivation to return to education or employment and plan for a future beyond cancer
• were able to gain an experience which they can include on their CV and work experience history
• were provided with a sense of achievement, improving self- confidence & self-esteem
• Worked collaboratively with other young people, venue, Teens Unite and our foundation partners

To everyone who has supported this project, a huge thank you.  You are continuing to help us support young people fighting cancer to love their best life while others search for a cure.