Choosing a Charity of the Year is an initiative shared by AFM in both Jersey and Guernsey where the teams choose a local charity which receives support with time, fundraising and provision of expertise throughout the year. 

For 2019 Jersey chose to support Brighter Futures and Guernsey selected Wigwam Support Group to be their charity partners.

Over the course of last year Jersey staff took part in several events such as the Swimarathon, which was a real family affair with Mark Le Lay, Ian Spry and Tamara Lempriere being joined by Mark and Ian’s sons (Charlie and Liam). The team complete 102 lengths raising £450 towards a total in excess of £2500 for the year.

As well as various volunteering initiatives Ian has also worked closely with Brighter Futures to find other ways of making a real difference to the charity and the families they support. One such practical aspect of our support will be the purchase of a new Explor’action gigantic activity playground which helps children master their motor skills and acquire confidence, along with the ability to take initiative and develop their physical abilities.”

Throughout 2019 the Guernsey team supported Wigwam in many ways including the donation of Easter eggs and advent calendars that were enjoyed by many of the service users; the donation of weighted blankets and also working with Printed to design a banner for Wigwam to use at public events. Our team also installed an adjustable height basin for one of the members which has drastically changed their daily life by increasing their independence. Fundraising included mufti days, an annual weight loss challenge in January followed by numerous bakes sales throughout the year, with a total of £2517 being raised during 2019.