Manchester Arndale is on the lookout for an inspiring charity or community group to champion as its Charity Star.
The initiative, which launched in 2015, has been extended to be an 18 month project (previously one year), with new chosen group expected to receive thousands of pounds for its cause between January 2017 and June 2018.
Charities and community groups from across Manchester (inside the M60) are invited to apply for a place as the centre’s dedicated charity. A key part of the fundraising will come from Manchester Arndale’s Christmas gift wrap service.
There will be various other activities throughout the year, and the charity will also receive the use of £18,000 worth of commercial space within the centre to publicise their work. All charities in Greater Manchester are invited to apply for the position of “Charity Star”, simply by telling Manchester Arndale how they would benefit from the funds. Applications can be made online from today, with entries closing on Friday 27 January.
David Allinson, centre director at Manchester Arndale, said: “Our Charity Star initiative allows us to focus our fundraising efforts to make a real impact on one local charity, and the new 18 month programme will help increase this impact event further.
“We want to find a charity or group that supports Manchester communities and demonstrates a passion for working closely in partnership with us to make a huge difference. We look forward to delivering some creative fundraising activities alongside our Christmas gift wrap service and wish the best of luck to all those who apply.”
Manchester Arndale is in the heart of Manchester city centre and welcomes over 40million shoppers each year. In 2016, Manchester Arndale supported Home-Start Greater Manchester as its Charity Star. Fundraising proceeds were used to help fund the charity’s vital work in the local community, including the recruitment and training of new volunteers to help more families in need across the city.
In addition, the centre has partnered with Mustard Tree for the last three years, to deliver award-winning project The Empty Shop, helping homeless people in Manchester. Manchester Arndale is also proud to sponsor the Community Project of the Year category at Manchester City Council’s Be Proud awards.
