Nursery Staff Lace Up for Windsor Ultra Challenge to Support Vulnerable Children
A dedicated team of seventeen nursery professionals from across Berkshire and Surrey is gearing up to participate in the Windsor Ultra Challenge 10k. Their mission is to raise crucial funds for the Bright Horizons Foundation for Children, a charity dedicated to supporting vulnerable children and families facing trauma.
Team Effort Across Multiple Locations
The participants hail from Bright Horizons nurseries in Bracknell, Sonning Lane, Woking, Hinchley Wood, and Haslemere. They will run, jog, or walk the scenic 10-kilometer course on April 18, which offers stunning views of Windsor Castle, the Thames Path, and the surrounding countryside.
This fundraising initiative is spearheaded by Louise Burness, nursery manager at Bright Horizons Bracknell, who is participating for the second consecutive year. "Taking part in the challenge last year was such a positive experience," Louise shared. "Beyond the money raised, it's also about bringing people together, supporting wellbeing, and spending time with colleagues."
Building on Past Success for a Meaningful Cause
Last year, the team successfully raised over £2,000 for the Foundation, and they are determined to surpass that amount this year. Each participant has committed to an individual fundraising target of £50. The funds will directly support the Foundation's Bright Spaces programme.
Established in 2005, the Bright Horizons Foundation for Children assists families experiencing domestic violence, abuse, homelessness, parental imprisonment, and ill health. The Bright Spaces programme creates safe, nurturing environments where children can play, recover, and build positive relationships.
Direct Impact on a Local Project
The money raised will specifically aid the refurbishment of a Bright Space at HMP Bronzefield, a women's prison where Louise and a small group of colleagues regularly volunteer. This space is used by children visiting their mothers and is being redeveloped to create a more welcoming environment, including a new parent room.
"The team and I are really excited to be involved again this year," Louise added. "Knowing that the money we raise is going directly towards improving a Bright Space at Bronzefield, somewhere we're personally connected to, makes it even more meaningful for us."
Part of a Larger Fundraising Goal
This event is part of a broader fundraising effort across the nursery group's south division, which aims to raise £12,035 for the Bright Horizons Foundation for Children this year. The team is actively encouraging friends, family, and local communities to support their cause and help make a significant difference in the lives of children and families facing adversity.
