Big Yellow Friday is all about community fundraising so as four-year-old Nellie’s mom, auntie and nanny are all regulars at their local Virgin Active, it was only natural to ask if the gym would like to get involved.
“We were delighted that Virgin were happy to support us,” says Nellie’s Auntie Sophie. “And we decided to ensure there was something for everyone. So, we had a coffee morning, a raffle for a Big Yellow hamper, and a Guess the Name of the Duck competition.
“As we wanted to maximise fundraising and were conscious that many people do not carry cash with them, we had a poster with a QR code which people could just scan with their phones to donate if they preferred.
“The day certainly surpassed our expectations, and we had a steady stream of people taking part in everything. It certainly helps that we are familiar faces at the gym. People recognised Nellie and were genuinely interested in how the charity was of benefit to us as a family.
“We also had great support from the team at Virgin Active who really got behind the idea. Our amazing Experience Consultant Dane was rallying his own troops as well as telling club members about the bake sale. It meant a great deal to us and undoubtedly contributed to the success of the event. We had set ourselves a target of £500 and are delighted to have completely smashed that with our total now standing at £1920!”
The team at Virgin were equally delighted with the fundraiser: “I will say that this was the best event I have been to in one of our clubs since starting my role with VA two years ago!” said Regional Exercise Experience Manager, Matt Gardner.
The take home message from Sophie is clear: “If you’re thinking of approaching your local gym or sports club about a fundraiser, just do it! You’ll be so glad you did and it can prove such a positive experience. We’re not only proud of the money we raised but of the fact that there are people who had no idea about liver disease in children who now know a little bit more, and all because Virgin Active joined in Big Yellow Friday!”
