Lancaster hospice launches special 'birthday club' to mark 35 years

The club is looking for 350 people to be the face of the hospice for their 35th birthday.

The club sees the hospice reaching out to its community to ask for 350 people to each commit to raising £100 or more and in turn the 350 people will become the face of the hospice by featuring in a new piece of art that will be showcased in the hospice.

Lisa Morgan, fundraising manager, said: “Celebrating a 35th birthday is something very special for St John’s Hospice and we couldn’t let it go by not doing something unique. People come to us asking how they can help because they know we are a charity and need their support.

“The 35th Birthday Club is designed so that everyone can take part no matter what their fundraising experience is – people can commit to an activity that may be sponsored by friends and family, they can choose to raise their £100 each by doing anything from cake sales to something sporty and they can take the gentler option of donating.

“The big finale will be a picture wall and art piece that will be made up of all the 350 faces, which will take pride of place in the hospice. Everyone who signs up will also receive a commemorative 35th birthday pin badge.”

The 350 faces who successfully raise £100 will feature on the artwork and on an on-line picture wall, those who raise more will receive extra goodies as well.

One young fundraiser has already smashed her personal target of a huge £1,000! Ruby Kirkland has committed to walking, running and cycling 100 miles during March, and at just 13 years old is currently one of the youngest members of the Birthday Club.

Maddy Bass, director of nursing and quality, said: “Our wish is that the money raised through this unique 35th Birthday Club will help us continue to provide care and support to our patients and their families in your community.

"Every donation makes a difference so, if 350 people raise £100 each that will pay for a nurse’s salary and additional costs for a whole year. That would be such a wonderful gift for the community.”

To be part of this special club simply sign up via the St John’s website here and commit to raising or donating a minimum of £100 during the next six months.

St John’s will give every ‘face’ the tools and support needed including lots of great ideas to get people started.