We’re thrilled to announce Raise ’24, a dynamic initiative dedicated to supporting 11 incredible charities in Oxfordshire. Join us as we aim to make a difference for communities in need and create a brighter future for people of all ages and backgrounds.

Meet the Charities: Who We’re Supporting

Raise ’24 is all about supporting the vital work of 11 local charities, each tackling critical issues that affect our community. With diverse missions, these charities offer a lifeline to many, from mental health support for young people to palliative care, from homelessness aid to combating loneliness. Here are the incredible organisations at the heart of Raise ’24:

• Homeless Oxfordshire – Providing shelter and resources for the homeless

• Oxfordshire Community Foundation – Promoting local philanthropy to support community needs

• Oxfordshire Youth – Empowering young people to build brighter futures

• Plunkett UK – Helping rural communities through cooperative ventures

• Sobell House – Offering compassionate care for those facing life-limiting illnesses

• Be Free Young Carers – Supporting young carers with resources and respite

• Connection Support – Aiding vulnerable individuals with housing and wellbeing

• Debra UK – Providing relief for those affected by Epidermolysis Bullosa

• Oxfordshire Sexual Abuse and Rape Crisis Centre – Supporting survivors of sexual abuse

• Pancreatic Cancer UK – Dedicated to the fight against pancreatic cancer

Together, these charities cover a range of issues from genetic health conditions and homelessness to cancer support and youth mental health. Through Raise ’24, we aim to raise £2,000 to help them continue their valuable work, making a tangible difference in the lives of local people.

ELS in Action: Events and Team Spirit

Our team at ELS has rolled up its sleeves to support Raise ’24 with a series of events designed to engage everyone—from our colleagues to the wider community. Here’s what we have lined up to get everyone involved and keep the fundraising momentum high:

• Conquering Snowdon – On Saturday 19th October, our dedicated ELS team members braved the heights of Snowdon. Led by Louis from Digital Learning, Rosie (EPA Coordinator), Gary (independent EPA assessor), Michael (Bid Support Officer), and Caz (EPA Director) the team took on the mountain as a symbol of commitment to the Raise ’24 cause.

• Hallowe’en Dress-Up – On Thursday 31st October, the ELS team chose to go from elegant flares to sophisticated scares, transformed with costumes with a spooky dress-up day. We made sure that the whole team was ready for a true Hallowe’en themed catwalk!

• Bake Sales – Starting November 6th until December 11th, we’ll be hosting bake sales on every Wednesday next to the Morrisons store on Curie Avenue. Make sure you come and say hello and get your sweet treats! All our goods will be homemade by the ELS team.

• Quiz Night – Gather your mates and join us for an exciting Quiz Night! Held on November 15th from 7pm at Harwell Village Hall (OX11 0EX), this event promises an evening of trivia, laughs, and community spirit. Plus, there’ll be a raffle with fantastic prizes from both national and local indie businesses. Tickets are available via Eventbrite: ELS Quiz Night in support of Raise’24.

How You Can Help

Whether you’re near or far, there are plenty of ways to get involved and help us reach our goal. Any support, big or small, goes a long way in helping us achieve our £2,000 target and contributing to the larger Raise ’24 mission of raising £150,000.

• Donate – Monetary donations of any amount are hugely appreciated. If you’re moved by the causes we’re supporting, consider donating through this link: Donate to Raise ’24.

• Come to an Event – If you’re local, why not pop by one of our bake sales or join us for the Quiz Night on 15th November? It’s a great way to support Raise ’24 while enjoying the company of fellow supporters.

• Donate a Raffle Prize – If you have items that would make great raffle prizes, we’d be thrilled to include them. Whether it’s a gift voucher, a homemade hamper, or anything in between, your donation could help make our raffle a big success.

Oxfordshire Community Foundation: Excited to Support RAISE 24!

With the combined effort of our team and the community, Raise ’24 is more than just a fundraising event—it’s a chance to unite for meaningful causes. Let’s build on this fantastic initiative, and together, make a real difference for Oxfordshire charities.

Here’s to reaching our goals and making Raise ’24 an unforgettable year of giving! Thank you for being part of our journey—let’s make it one to remember.