Swimmers helping wishes come true

Saturday 24 December 2016

Over 200 teams have already signed up for the Swimarathon and will be helping Islanders' wishes come true.

Brighter Futures is one of five local organisations who'll be benefiting from the big fundraiser in March and plans to invest the donations it gets in its 'Wants and Wishes' course and continue working with families who are experiencing difficulties in their lives.

The charity offers a range of programmes which address three key areas of family life: relationships with the family, self-awareness and personal development and self-esteem and confidence.

Jo Posen from Brighter Futures said: "Our very popular 'Wants and Wishes' programme is designed to encourage self-reflection and evaluation, leading to a growth in self-esteem and self-confidence. For many of the clients who attend, it is a highly emotional process but we support them every step of the way.

"Those that take the programme usually live with low self-esteem and can experience social isolation and low confidence. This can be for a range of reasons such as post-natal depression, low moods, financial and poverty issues.

"We work together through a mix of group and individual activities. We explore the life choices that have been made, how they impact on that person and their family and how to set goals to get more out of the situation. The course has a profound impact not only on the participants but also the children within the family setting."

Lion Andrew Quinn, president of the Lions Club of Jersey said: "In speaking to Brighter Futures, we understand that the 'Wants and Wishes' course has a very positive impact on those that participate. Comments such as ‘loved the course’, ‘very supportive teachers’ and ‘sad to finish’ are testament to the fantastic results the programme is achieving.

"The Lions Club is delighted that the funds from the 2017 Swimarathon will secure this course and more broadly help the work charities are delivering in support of families and young people." 

Ms Posen said: "We’re delighted to have been selected as one of the 2017 Swimarathon beneficiaries. We would like to thank both the organisers, Lions Club of Jersey and long-term event sponsors, RBC Wealth Management."

You can find out more about the 2017 Swimarathon and how to donate here.