We rely on the generous donations and involvement of supporters and volunteers to be able to help those affected by Covid-19 throughout the UK. Here are some ideas for anyone keen to help us out by raising some money in support of Covid Aid.
1. Take part in a running event
Planning to get back into running in the new year? Why not pick Covid Aid as the recipient of your 5k, 10k or marathon sponsorship money! There are a lot of races taking place around the country in 2023 and you can find information about some of them here: Fundraising Events | covid:aid (covidaidcharity.org).
We are so grateful to everyone who put their best foot forward to run for Covid Aid over the past year, like Bhim Purja Pum who ran the Bath half marathon in memory of his Dad, Mr Ganga Purja, who sadly passed away in April 2020 due to COVID-19. Gavin Perrett also took part in the Brentwood Half Marathon in memory of his parents and said, “In particular I wanted to support those struggling with their grief and those living with Long Covid.”
Whichever event you choose, a member of our team will support you on your event journey with regular phone calls and emails as well as training and fundraising advice.
2. Set a personal goal
If a marathon doesn’t appeal, you can set your own personal target, or arrange an event in collaboration with a class you attend. Choose whatever works for you: skipping, rolling, swimming, rowing, yoga, zumba or kickboxing… anything goes! Set the time or distance for your challenge, and you can use a range of apps to record your progress.
Rachel Colyer raised money when she walked a very impressive 874 miles in memory of her dad, Brian Howells who sadly died of Covid. Rachel told us, "I hope that whatever I manage to raise will go some way to helping others who have been affected in any way by COVID-19."
3. Arrange a local fundraising event
Engage your local community and arrange a local fundraising event, such as a bake sale, bring & buy or an arts & crafts fair. It is a great opportunity to connect with your community as well as sharing information about Covid Aid with those who might benefit from our services.
Take inspiration from Cat Vezmar, who held a fundraising raffle for Covid Aid, and also donated a percentage of her profits from the sale of her artwork, at her art show in September!
4. Plan a unique challenge
Have you been meaning to do something for a while, but need a push? How about setting yourself a unique challenge, like abseiling or bungee jumping (look online for organised events)… or something more personal like being sponsored to go a set period without buying new clothes, drinking coffee or using social media.
You could be inspired by Long Covid sufferers Ana Leite, Jo Bee and Rosie Frankenburg. Ana did a sponsored photography challenge, Jo set herself a target of crocheting a granny square a day for a month and Rosie set herself a knitting challenge every day in May. She also sold her beautiful knitted cushion covers to raise more money to support those living with Long Covid. A great commitment from them all - as Jo said, "this may not be taxing for some, but for me now, it is a big challenge."
5. Organise a performance evening
Are you part of a local choir or drama company - or just know some talented neighbours? How about hosting a fundraising performance or gala to raise money? This is another great way to bring your community together, and do something really fun and worthwhile at the same time!
Anything goes - for example DJs Simon Sandher, Stewart Green and Christopher McGovern hosted online Twitch music sets to raise money during lockdown, followed by a sell-out charity Club Night in Glasgow once restrictions were lifted.
Thank you to everyone who took the time and effort to fundraise for Covid Aid over the past year. And to everyone who sets themselves a challenge this year - whatever you decide to do, thank you for supporting Covid Aid!
