A-Z Fundraising List
Read our (almost) full A-Z list of fundraising ideas here or keep scrolling to read some of our fundraiser stories.
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Claire's Story - The 2024 London Marathon
Claire Heath is Head of Partnerships at Switch the Play Foundation. Having a connection with sport as well as a strong background in the charity sector, she always wanted to do something to bring both passion and experience together.
For many years, Claire had an ambition to run in the London Marathon one day and had entered the ballot to get a place several times previously, usually receiving the “Sorry, not this time!” email. But this time it was different and she was lucky enough to get a place. She decided to use this brilliant opportunity to raise money for Switch the Play Foundation.
How was training for the marathon? “Not being a natural distance runner (I was a sprinter in my youth!), and now being older and never having run this distance before, it was definitely challenging! But I was amazed at how quickly I progressed and adapted to the runs as they got longer and longer and almost enjoyed the process.”
Why did you choose to raise funds for Switch the Play Foundation? “It’s a cause that is close to my heart and, now working for the charity, I’ve learned a lot about the challenges athletes face on leaving professional sport. It’s a cause that needs highlighting as many people don’t think about how hard the transition can be for sportspeople. I wanted to raise some awareness amongst people outside the sector, as well as raising much needed funds for the charity. It’s a small charity and we don’t get places on the London Marathon.”
What would you say to others thinking about taking on a challenge for Switch the Play? “If you have an opportunity to take on a big personal challenge or you get a place on an event like this, then why not make the most of the opportunity to raise a bit of money for a good cause too! It’s amazing how generous your network are when you take on something like this. The team at Switch the Play are very happy to help support you with the fundraising part!”
Start your fundraising here
Mairéad's Story - The Bath Half!
Mairéad McErlean is a final year student at the University of Bath, studying for a BSc in Exercise & Sport Science. She also captains the university ladies rugby team and is a flanker for Bath Ladies.
In 2022-2023 Mairéad did her university placement year as an Intern at Switch the Play Foundation. Shortly after finishing her placement, she wanted to do something to give back to the charity.
Mairéad decided to run the Bath Half Marathon in October 2023 and raise funds for Switch the Play. Having never run this distance before, she admitted to finding it touch to begin with. “Training for a half marathon was a challenge alongside playing rugby, but I LOVED the run on event day and definitely want to do a full marathon one day.”
Why did you choose to raise money for Switch the Play? “Leaving sport is really tough and I wanted to help ensure the charity can continue to do the amazing work it does now. I was inspired to raise money for Switch the Play after completing my placement year with the team and seeing first hand the amazing work they do to support athletes through one of the toughest times in their lives.”
What would you say to others considering taking on a challenge for Switch the Play? “Do it! As competitive sport grows, eventually leaving sport is becoming tougher each year, so you'd be raising money for a cause that really needs your support. The team at Switch the Play will support and help you with fundraising tips so you can focus on your training!”
Start your fundraising here