Spring 2024 – Our Community – Dorset Wildlife Trust Magazine

Our Community

As we witness the increasing threats to Dorset’s wildlife, individuals and communities are joining forces to make a meaningful impact for nature through community fundraising. From traditional events like charity raffles and sponsored walks to creating Facebook fundraisers, the collective spirit is making a tangible difference on the ground. Each pound raised contributes to the larger mission of protecting Dorset’s most vulnerable species. These community-driven efforts are not only raising funds but also fostering a sense of shared responsibility and environmental stewardship.

Ocean Automotive Quiz

Ocean Automotive held a Charity Quiz night in November at Poole Audi. Proceeds of the quiz and raffle raised £1,353.50.

Comms Unplugged Team

Comms Unplugged is a not-for-profit retreat, offering opportunities for comms people to connect offline, listening to inspirational speakers and taking part in motivational workshops, in a unique setting in rural Dorset. Since their first event in 2017, their fundraising activities have resulted in £2,693.50 being donated to Dorset Wildlife Trust.

Arboro Lounge

The Arboro Lounge in Ringwood chose Dorset Wildlife Trust as their charity of the year and with help from their staff and customers raised £340.50 from their fundraising activities, including a raffle and quiz.

Challenge Events

Cathy Young and Brian Bleese

The Big Wild Walk is The Wildlife Trusts’ annual fundraising challenge, where you can run, cycle, walk, swim, or roll to fundraise to protect the wildlife you love.

Inspired by her visits to West Bexington nature reserve, Cathy Young challenged herself with sponsored open water swimming, which raised £100. “I would recommend taking on a bracing challenge such as an open water swim. It’s a great way to get out into nature.”

Thank you so much to everyone who took part in the Big Wild Walk in October 2023, raising a total of £398 for Dorset Wildlife Trust. All the funds raised will help us achieve our goal of securing 30% of land and sea for nature’s recovery by 2030.

Kirstin McCormack

Compelled to take action against the climate crisis, Kirstin McCormack walked 100km in 29 hours in May for Dorset Wildlife Trust, as part of the Jurassic Coast Ultra Challenge. She raised £751.37. Kirstin said, “It was incredibly tough but worth every step and every blister to help protect wildlife and wild spaces in Dorset.”

Challenge Events

Will you challenge yourself this year? Your contribution, no matter how big or small, can be a catalyst for change. To get your fundraising pack full of ideas and tips visit our website.