Organisations across Dorset will be braving the cold on behalf of YMCA Bournemouth to support ‘The BIG Sleep Easy’ at The Bournemouth Sports Club (Chapel Gate) near Bournemouth International Airport.
Fundraisers will wrap up warm, build shelters out of cardboard boxes, take part in fun challenges and then sleep outside for the night, protected only by their sleeping bag, hot drinks and the warm messages of those who’ve sponsored them. The event will take place in an enclosed area of Bournemouth Sports Club from 6.45pm on Saturday to 8am on Sunday morning.
YMCA Bournemouth are inviting local businesses, groups and organisations to put their own teams forward for the event, the purpose of which is to raise awareness of local homelessness and essential funds to support the charity’s work.
Fundraising Manager, Martin Stockley, said: “We had such great feedback from our previous Sleep Easy collaborations with Bournemouth University and Lytchett Minster School, we wanted to open the opportunity up to the local business community, who we thought would also benefit from the event’s team-building aspects, positive local community involvement and resulting impact.”
He added: “The aim is to raise at least £10,000 to go towards our work providing the support that homeless individuals need to help them return to independent living and a positive long-term future. We urge all employees to mention the event to their managers – it’s going to be a great night out for all involved!”
Local businesses already putting teams forward include Altogether Care, Corbin & Co and Make Studio, plus Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry members ITSB, Keyfort and Lester Aldridge.
Managing Partner of Lester Aldridge solicitors, Matthew Barrow, who will himself be sleeping ‘rough’ on the night on behalf of the charity, said:
“We are delighted to be able to support our local community by taking part in the YMCA Bournemouth BIG Sleep Easy event. Homelessness is on the increase and local business support is vital to making a difference. YMCA Bournemouth is an integral part of our local community and by taking part in this event we are helping to change the social landscape in Bournemouth.”
If organisations would like to join other local businesses for a night under the stars this autumn and make a real difference to people’s lives, they can request an information pack from Martin Stockley on 07897 563 473 or martin.stockley@ymcabournemouth.org.uk. Individual fundraisers are also very welcome to join in the fun!
