The Wakefield Annual Christmas Charity Lunch (WACCL) has made a significant impact by raising over £25,000 to support young people in the Wakefield District.
This well-established event continues to bring the business community together, fostering a spirit of charity and collective effort.
Fundraising Success
The Wakefield Annual Christmas Charity Lunch (WACCL) has shared over £25k with various beneficiaries. This annual event aims to raise substantial funds for charities and organisations supporting young people in the Wakefield District. Since its inception in 2011, WACCL has raised more than £300k, bringing the business community together to celebrate and contribute to the cause.
Building on the success of 2023, the event organisers aim to secure £30k during the 2024 event, which is scheduled for Thursday 12th December. The lunch has become a staple in the community, reflecting its consistent effort to support a range of charitable causes.
Beneficiaries of 2023
Thanks to the generous contributions made during the 2023 lunch, numerous beneficiaries received much-needed support. Organisations such as Levi’s Star, Star Bereavement, Theatre Royal Performance Academy, The Give A Duck Foundation, Cyclists Fighting Cancer, Sense, and Blossom were among those who benefited from the funds raised.
Clare Thornton, Chair of the WACCL committee, expressed her excitement, stating, “It’s always an exciting time when we share how much money we’ve raised for local charities. Seeing the reactions from our beneficiaries is just one of the reasons that we do what we do.”
History and Impact
Since its launch, WACCL has grown exponentially in both scope and impact. The event not only provides financial support but also fosters a sense of community and collective effort among businesses and individuals in the region. This unity is crucial for the sustained success of the charitable initiatives supported by WACCL.
The funds raised have been pivotal in supporting various projects aimed at improving the lives of young people. From educational programs to health initiatives, the impact of these funds is far-reaching, helping to create opportunities and provide essential services to those in need.
The commitment of the WACCL committee and its supporters cannot be overstated. Their dedication and hard work are fundamental to the event’s success, ensuring that each year’s lunch is more impactful than the last.
Future Plans
Looking ahead, WACCL aims to continue its tradition of supporting local charities and organisations. The hope is to surpass the funds raised in previous years, with an ambitious target set for the 2024 event. The committee encourages local charities, not-for-profits, and community organisations to apply to become beneficiaries.
Organisations interested in being considered as beneficiaries for 2024 should contact Clare Thornton at Thornton Jones. The deadline for applications is 31st August 2024. This process ensures that a diverse range of causes receives support, reflecting the inclusive mission of WACCL.
Event Details
The 2024 event will take place on Thursday, 12th December. Those interested in attending can purchase tickets, which are priced at £65 each or £600 per table of ten. The event continues to attract significant interest from the community, with many looking forward to participating in the fundraising efforts.
Tickets can be purchased from Eventbrite, providing an accessible way for individuals and businesses to support the cause. The event promises to be an evening of celebration, unity, and generosity, encapsulating the spirit of WACCL.
The annual Christmas lunch is not just about raising funds; it’s about bringing people together for a common cause. The event highlights the power of collective effort in making a meaningful difference in the community.
Committee and Volunteers
The success of WACCL is largely attributed to the dedicated committee and volunteers who work tirelessly to ensure the event runs smoothly. Their efforts behind the scenes are essential, from organising the event to coordinating with beneficiaries.
Clare Thornton highlighted the importance of this support, stating, “Without the WACCL committee, the event simply wouldn’t happen. So I would like to thank all those that support us. We’re already looking forward to this year’s Christmas lunch!”
Application Process
Charities, not-for-profits, and community organisations interested in becoming beneficiaries of the 2024 WACCL are encouraged to apply. The deadline for applications is 31st August 2024, and organisations can reach out to Clare Thornton at Thornton Jones for more information.
The application process is designed to be straightforward, ensuring that all eligible organisations have the opportunity to benefit from the funds raised. This inclusive approach helps to support a wide range of causes, making a difference in the lives of young people throughout Wakefield District.
The Wakefield Annual Christmas Charity Lunch remains a vital event in the community, providing essential support to various charities and organisations.
With ambitious goals for the future, WACCL continues to exemplify the power of unity and generosity in making a tangible difference.
