Help Us Sustain Monthly Cookouts for our youth

I hope this message finds you well. My name is Si Campbell, and I'm reaching out to you with a heartfelt appeal to support our monthly cookouts at Oaklands Youth Club, Handsworth. At Oaklands vibrant youth club, the staff there cater to the incredible energy

and spirit of 13 to 16-year-olds, creating a safe and enjoyable space for them to connect, learn, and grow.

Our Mission: Our cookouts are more than just a meal; they're a vital part of our mission to foster a sense of community, belonging, and joy among our young members. These monthly gatherings allow us to provide not only delicious and nutritious food but also a platform for friendship, laughter, and shared experiences.

The Impact: Imagine the impact of a hot, hearty meal on a winter evening or a refreshing treat on a hot summer day. For many of our youth, these cookouts represent more than just a source of nourishment—they're a moment of connection that extends beyond the dinner table. It's a chance for them to build lasting memories and relationships that contribute to

their overall well-being. We are not here to humiliate or embarrass any young people, so if someone asks for a plate to take home, we also provide this too. Our work has ripple effects beyond the youth centre.

Why We Need Your Support: Running these cookouts comes with its challenges, especially in terms of funding, so far Elevated Minds staff have personally funded these cookouts since 2023. However, as the numbers of young people have grown (sometimes reaching up to 70 young people) it has become difficult in maintaining the cookouts whilst being self-funded.

We believe that every young person deserves access to good food and a positive community experience, regardless of financial circumstances. Your generous contribution will help us cover the costs of ingredients, equipment, and other essentials to ensure that our cookouts remain a consistent and uplifting presence in the lives of our youth.

How You Can Help: We're inviting you to be a crucial part of our mission by contributing to our GoFundMe campaign. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a significant difference. Here's what your support could provide:

 £3.50: A delicious and nutritious meal for one youth

 £20: Ingredients for a variety of dishes to accommodate different tastes

 £20: Cooking utensils and equipment to enhance our culinary experiences

 £100: Support for special themed cookouts to make the events even more

memorable.

Conclusion: Thank you for taking the time to learn about our cause. Your support not only feeds hungry stomachs but also nourishes the souls of our youth. Together, we can continue to create a positive and welcoming environment that empowers these young minds to thrive.

Join us on this journey of impact and empowerment. Lets cook up something special for our youth!

With gratitude, Si Campbell, Elevated Minds CIC

[email redacted]