Kenzie

In the current climate, maintaining mental wellbeing and a positive mindset has never been so important.

Of the many aspects of life affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, teenagers and young adults have been severely impacted at a crucial point in their development as they look to complete their education or find their feet in the world of work.

Back in April, City in the Community (CITC) called for supporters to take part in the annual Blue Run event to help raise funds for City Thrive, a new programme to support the mental health of thousands of 14 to 25-year-olds across Greater Manchester.

The Blue Run sees supporters complete a 2km, 5km or 10km challenge, with this year’s edition seeing participants take on the challenge in their local area, wherever they were in the world.

Kenzie, who is currently a CITC participant on the BTEC Course, was one such person to take part, recruiting a group of friends to complete a 10km run and contribute towards the astonishing total figure of over £48,000, which was raised through the event.

“The most satisfying part was seeing the total amount of money that was raised at the end,” she reflected.

“I knew that the money was going to a very worthwhile cause which made me proud to have taken part. 

“I decided to fundraise as there has been a massive increase in the number of people struggling with their mental health over the past year due to Covid so it was important to me that I did whatever I could in order to help.”

The Blue Run aims to leave a lasting impression on the lives of local young people, with the money raised helping to support bespoke mental health and football sessions across Greater Manchester as well as opportunities for group and one-to-one mentoring.

And while Kenzie’s priority was always to better the lives of those young people severely affected by the pandemic, she has also felt the benefit of the tireless fundraising efforts.

"This experience has had a positive impact on me as it is the first time I have raised a large amount of money for charity,” she pointed out.

“It feels very good to know that the money is going to a very worthwhile cause and is going to make a big difference.

“I am very grateful for everyone that contributed and donated.”

To learn more about Cityzens Giving for Recovery visit: https://www.globalgiving.org/projects/cityzens-giving-for-recovery-manchester/