The award gives the charity the chance to invest in its future with ten months of strategic planning support from a dedicated team of four business experts, thanks to pro bono charity Pilotlight and a core grant of £6,500 from the Garfield Weston Foundation.
First Stop Darlington is a local charity run by local Trustees, staff and volunteers. Our Vision is to have a prosperous local community with no one living in poverty. Our Mission is to inspire a will to take action on poverty and through collaboration build practical solutions to avoid and resolve it.
In congratulating First Stop, Philippa Charles, Director of the Garfield Weston Foundation said:
“Our Trustees are delighted to be able to support a record number of charities this year through the Weston Charity Awards. The Awards underscore the Foundation’s passion for nurturing and empowering charities to thrive and support those who need it most.”
Ed Mayo, Chief Executive of Pilotlight, the charity which connected First Stop with a team of coaches drawn from a range of businesses and other organisations said:
“When you fall, you want someone to catch you. Small charities offer a safety net for so many people who are vulnerable and in need. Yet small charities typically do not have the support and help that they need themselves in order to sustain their work and spread their impact. We are proud to be able to assist 22 inspiring charities through the Weston Charity Awards over the coming year.”