Kate Shelby has a background in marketing, management and social media – but as Chair of the Scouts Cleveland Fundraising Committee she’s boldly going where no-one has before, organising their first Christmas Extravaganza.
“It’s the first time the Scouts have done a fundraiser like this,” she says, “and it’s a fundraiser for a very special purpose – to enable young people, in hard financial times, to continue their membership of Scouts.”
Kate says that the current straitened finances for many families means cutting costs where possible, and for some families, that could mean reluctantly discontinuing Scout membership.
“Scouting is probably one of the most affordable activities for young people, but it’s still a cost,” she says. “Paying for uniforms, equipment, and outings is proving really difficult for some, and we’re hoping that this fundraiser will make the difference for some kids to reap the very real benefits of Scouting.”
Kate says that being a Scout made a massive difference to her daughter, who was anxious about moving into high school, being able to make new friends and dealing with possible bullying.
“When she became a member of the local Scouts, the mentoring and support of the leaders – adults and older adolescents – made the world of difference to her confidence. She went into high school excited at meeting up with friends she’d made in Scouts and hasn’t looked back. Scouting provides such valuable life lessons for young people.”
The fundraiser will be an afternoon of market stalls, carefully selected; originality, small local businesses, handmade goods and eco-friendliness are some of the benchmarks.
Kate says that food sales from the Scouts barbecue will be a major part of the fundraising, as will raffles held throughout the day.
“We’re seeking generous donations from local businesses, philanthropists and individuals to really make these raffles worth winning,” Kate says. “If you’re a potential donor please get in touch!”
The Scouts Cleveland Christmas Extravaganza will be held at 26 Bainbridge St, Ormiston QLD 4160 on November 30 from 2:00pm to 6:30pm. Kate can be contacted at [email protected].
