Tis the season to lace up your trainers and dash through the snow (or pavement) at University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity’s Elf Dash – a festive 2km run where the whole community can come together to raise funds for the brand-new classroom in the BEACH Building’s Children’s Department.
Dozens of families, friends and NHS colleagues will run along the gorgeous Branksome Seafront on Sunday 8 December 2024 spreading holiday cheer and festive fun while raising funds to help young people access accessible education while awaiting treatment in the BEACH Building.
As part of The BEACH Appeal, the charity is fundraising for additional items, which go above and beyond NHS funding, to provide young patients with an accessible and engaging space to continue their education while they are receiving care.
Whether you dash like Dasher or stroll like Santa after some cookies, your support will ensure that children and young people of all abilities can receive the gift of education and stay engaged in learning in a comforting and creative environment.
After crossing the finish line, participants can swing by to say ‘Hello’-Ho-Ho to Santa in his magical grotto and let him know what’s on their Christmas wish list. Then, they can nosh on some delicious holiday treats, courtesy of several of our local Tescos.
University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity fundraising assistant Aurelia Chliwna: “Elf Dash is a jolly day of fun for the whole family, from the festive run to nibbling on delicious treats while waiting to see Santa. It’s even more exciting as funds raised will bring some extra Christmas magic to the new classroom in the BEACH Building, enhancing this safe and supportive learning environment for children undergoing treatment. Plus, we’re excited to have United Taxis driving our fundraising sleigh forward this year! United Taxis plays a vital role in facilitating transportation for individuals throughout Dorset, whether they are traveling to a hospital appointment at one of our facilities or returning to their homes. We are immensely proud to collaborate with them. So, please dust off your favourite winter jumper, lace up your trainers and join us for a merry old time at Elf Dash!”
United Taxis managing director Andy Prescott said: “At United Taxis, we believe in giving back to the community that supports us. Being part of this festive event to raise funds for the new classroom at the BEACH Building is incredibly important to us because education is the foundation of a brighter future. The additional items we’re helping to provide will enhance the learning experience for these students, giving them the tools they need to thrive. We’re proud to be involved in a cause that will make a lasting impact on young lives.”
All proceeds from Elf Dash will go directly towards enhancing the new classroom in the BEACH Building’s Children’s Health Department, making the space truly special and accessible for pupils.
These additional items include laptops and iPads to bring learning to life while helping children stay in touch with their families and home schools while in hospital. Support for Elf Dash will also help purchase height-adjustable tables to accommodate pupils of all ages and abilities, providing a comfortable and practical learning space for everyone.
So, join University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity for a jolly good time by signing up for Elf Dash today: https://uhdcharity.org/elf-dash
