A first-of-its kind networking walk has raised awareness of the valuable work of a leading youth charity.
The ‘netwalk’ near Garstang, Lancashire came about when two businesses joined forces with the aim of promoting the inspirational work of The Boathouse Youth, a leading youth charity which helps young people facing a range of challenges.
The walk, held on Friday, was organised by Brown & Co partnering up with Furness Building Society. It saw people from almost 30 businesses and organisations meet at Nicky Nook on the edge of the Forest of Bowland before enjoying a 90-minute stroll in fabulous warm weather.
Chris Brown, Managing Director of Brown & Co, said: “At Brown & Co, we are proud to work with charities, community groups and not-for-profit organisations. We are delighted to support The Boathouse Youth and the incredible work they do to support young people.
“The ‘netwalk’ was a great chance for businesses to get together in an informal environment, surrounded by great views, with time to chat, connect and enjoy being outdoors.”
Lisa Archer, Senior Heartland Development Manager at Furness Building Society, said: “Giving back to the community is important to us. Whether we’re organising a beach clean, sponsoring a charity event or funding foodbanks, we support causes that matter. The Boathouse Youth is certainly one of those.”
Laurance Hancock, The Boathouse Youth’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “The idea was to do something a little bit different rather than networking in a traditional meeting room – to create the conditions for deeper relationships. I was able to have really good conversations with people I hadn’t met before, and to further develop relationships with people I had met previously.
“That resonates with us, because the basis of our work is to build relationships with young people through activities. Whether playing pool, camping or canal-boating, it’s about the conversations young people have while the activity is happening. It’s ultimately about building trust with young people. To do that in an adult environment and achieve the same success was quite impactful.”
The Boathouse Youth provides residential experiences and operates five youth clubs across Blackpool and the Fylde Coast in areas of socio-economic deprivation to create opportunities, increase aspirations and break the cycle of deprivation.
It costs the charity more than £1million per year to give fully funded provision to more than 1,000 children and young people, from the ages of five to 23.
Laurance added: “We’re really grateful to Brown & Co and Furness Building Society for putting the ‘netwalk’ together, and funding a social gathering at The Bellflower pub afterwards which enabled us to carry on some great conversations.”