£45k raised in 40 minutes at the first Northern Funder crowdfunder

On a cold, wet January evening the first Northern Funder online crowdfunder event hosted by The Funding Network in partnership with Two Ridings & County Durham Community Foundation took place.

With £45k raised for three northern charitable organisations in just over 40 minutes, the evening certainly warmed up as three inspiring, entrepreneurial & brave charity leaders told the incredible story of their organisation and the people they support to a ‘virtual’ audience of over 100 people

The Gallows Close centre in Barrowcliffe, Scarborough talked about the wide range of activities they provided,  a lifeline for many local residents which improves wellbeing and creates opportunities for the community.  At Wheatley Hill Community association in East Durham we saw the crucial service providing meals at home and reducing loneliness and isolation and Cornerstone in Hartlepool setting up much needed services and support for homeless people in the town.

Everyone present was rooting for all three community organisations.

People were very generous – whether it was someone’s first online crowd funding donation or £10 or a huge £15,000 from a large organisation (thank you Arqiva), there were contributions of all sizes – and it was fast, fun and furious and often match funded.

With these funds these organisations will transform and save lives.

Meals will be delivered and an eye kept on folk, small children will be helped to learn and make friends, young people will get the life changing experience of a trip away, homeless people will get hot showers, washing facilities open 24/7 and skills and opportunities for a different life.

It’s what philanthropy is all about: it’s not about the value, it’s about the solidarity & empathy one human being has for another and the vital life-changing support small community organisations give.

‘This is the best of humanity’ said the Host, with a lump in his throat alongside a thank you to the amazing community leaders Hilary, Kimmie and Steve, showcasing the brilliant work they do.

To find out about further Events, get in touch with Isabelle Clough.