Fundraising, Community and Team Sparkle Highlights

Over the past few weeks, we’ve seen so many brilliant examples of people coming together to support Sparkle and the families we work with across Gwent.

From running events and community fundraisers to Easter kindness and awareness days, it’s been lovely seeing so many people getting involved, raising money, spreading awareness and helping make a difference for local children and young people with disabilities and developmental difficulties.

We wanted to take a moment to share just a few recent highlights and say a huge thank you to everybody who continues to support Sparkle.

Team Sparkle Took on the Newport Marathon and 10K

There was an amazing atmosphere at this year’s Newport Marathon, and we were so proud to see Team Sparkle taking part across the marathon, half marathon and 10K events.

We had long standing runners determined to get another race under their belts in the name of Sparkle as well as self-confessed beginners moving eagerly out of their comfort zones with the motivation of raising money for a cause that means so much to them.  There were early morning starts and nervous pre-race selfies all the way through emotional finish line moments, it was an incredible day full of determination, support and that undeniable Sparkle community spirit.

We had Sparkle staff, parents, supporters and fundraisers all taking part, with many achieving huge personal goals while raising vital funds for Sparkle families across Gwent.

Seeing people challenge themselves for Sparkle, while being cheered on by supporters along the route, was genuinely special. We’re incredibly grateful to everybody who ran, donated, volunteered or supported from the sidelines.

Run, Bounce and Climb the Cardiff Inflatable 5K!

If running 26.2 miles sounds slightly too ambitious (because, yeah), there’s still time to sign up for the Inflatable 5K and join Team Sparkle for a much bouncier challenge instead.

Throw on you trainers and tutus and join us in taking part with friends, family or work colleagues, (yes, some of the Sparkle staff have signed up, some may have taken more convincing that others, but you will see some familiar faces along the way. The Inflatable 5K is such a fun way to support Sparkle while raising money for local children and young people.

Sign-up fees and fundraising targets apply, you can find out more by emailing: fundraising@sparkleappeal.org

Easter Kindness from Our Community

Over Easter, we were blown away by the kindness and generosity shown to Sparkle families.

A huge thank you to everybody who donated Easter eggs, treats and gifts for children and young people across our centres. Small acts of kindness can make such a big difference to families and seeing the smiles on the children’s faces was truly lovely so a huge thank you to everyone who contributed, including The Springs, Coldra Court, One2One Logistics, Beth Gibbs, RBC Brewin Dolphin and Atlas

We also want to say a big thank you to Risca RBL Club for organising their Easter Egg Hunt at Waunfawr Park with a Raffle in support of Sparkle. A lot of fun was had by all children and families who attended, and it does look as though our very own Fundraising Officer, Tracey was very happy to meet the Easter Bunny family.

Support Sparkle While You Shop

Did you know you can support Sparkle simply by doing your usual online shopping?

Through easyfundraising, thousands of retailers will donate to Sparkle at no extra cost to you when you shop online.

It’s such an easy way to support local children and families without spending anything extra, and every donation really does add up.

We’d also be incredibly grateful for your support in helping Sparkle climb the easyfundraising rankings by voting for us and sharing with friends and family.

Wear It Green Day

This week, the Sparkle team also took part in Wear It Green Day as part of Mental Health Awareness Week.

Supporting wellbeing is something that matters deeply to us, not only for the children and young people we support, but for parents, carers and families too.

It was lovely seeing the team come together in green while helping raise awareness and showing support for mental health.

Looking Ahead to the Cardiff Half Marathon

We’re already looking ahead to the Cardiff Half Marathon, and we’d love to hear from anybody interested in running for Team Sparkle this year.

Whether you’re a seasoned runner or taking on your very first challenge, every mile helps support local children, young people and families across Gwent.

If you’d like to get involved, we’d love to hear from you here.

Looking Ahead

We’ve got lots more coming up over the summer, including a Summer Market and Family Fun Day so keep an eye on our socials and we will keep you posted. We’re really looking forward to seeing even more of our community getting involved in supporting Sparkle over the coming months.

As always, thank you for continuing to support Sparkle and the families we work with every day. Your support genuinely helps make moments of joy, connection and support possible for so many local families. 💜

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