In February 2022, a wonderful local lady called Claire McCourt took on the challenge of running 5k every day in the month of February to raise money for GLOW. She smashed her £500 target, raising £727 and this vital funding enabled us to provide recreational days over the Easter break for 22 of our Glow-Getter girls aged between 11 – 17.
Our youth worker Lauren gave us a breakdown of how they enjoyed the week!
WEDNESDAY 20th
We all went to Airtastic together which was a lot of fun and great time for the girls to push themselves to doing the more challenging jumps!
THURSDAY 21st
A visit to Selfie City followed by a long stroll along around the Titanic Quarter. Due to Covid, we haven’t had the opportunity to get a lot of nice photos together as a group! So in Selfie City we were able to mix together more, have fun and get a fantastic group photo. The girls had a great time messing with all of the brilliant props and backgrounds!
FRIDAY 22nd
On our final day, we went to Helens Bay beach for mental health activities, made some some s’mores and a took a dip in the sea. This was a great opportunity for some heart to heart chats and just some time to enjoy the weather and bond as a group.
WHY ARE ACTIVITIES LIKE THIS SO IMPORTANT FOR THE GIRLS?
Easter and Summer schemes are essential because young people can find being off school disrupts their routine and mental health if they have little stimulation and interaction with others. Having activities and time with each other means they can relax and relieve stress whilst avoiding feelings of isolation. It also means that experiences for girls are not limited – they are available for everyone and this is why we are so grateful for the funds raised.
SOUNDS LIKE YOU HAD A FANTASTIC TIME! WERE THERE ANY OBSTACLES YOU HAD TO OVERCOME AS A YOUTH WORKER?
Only a funny obstacle! We were buzzing to go bowling on our very first day! Everyone was on time and we were enjoying the fabulous sunshine as we waited for the bus to collect us. 10 mins past and I thought I would ring to see where it was but there was no answer or sign of it. After 20 mins we were now late for our session (eek!) After 30 mins I was keeping a cool head but having a bit of a meltdown on the inside! It turns out the bus wasn’t even coming as they had got their days mixed up and the driver was at home chilling haha! Luckily he lived around the corner and came to get us! I find it hard when things don’t go to plan but so much is out of our control and sometimes you just have to laugh!
FEEDBACK
“I messaged you last night as I felt so anxious and said I couldn’t come today after a panic attack but I am so glad that I did. It helped me get out of my head and my house.”
“I didn’t think I would enjoy today’s activity but I gave it a try and it was actually really enjoyable!”.
“My daughter had such a fantastic time.”
“I talk about glow every week, it is always so exciting.”
If you would like to help us raise funds that will facilitate personal development and positive mental health for girls in Belfast, contact [email protected] to request a digital fundraising pack!