A major local fundraising effort has resulted in a £7,500 donation to Koala, the Andover-based neurodiversity support hub, following the return of the Glitter and Glow Firework Night at Thruxton Circuit.
Andover Community Events (ACE), in partnership with Thruxton Circuit and Aerodrome, presented the cheque to Koala this week after thousands attended the popular community event earlier this month. The total was achieved through the collective support of local businesses, volunteers and partner organisations who provided services, discounts and time to maximise the final figure.
Koala Community Hub, part of the registered charity More Education (1195650), is an autistic-led space providing support for autistic, neurodiverse and learning-disabled people of all ages, as well as their parents and carers. Based at Chantry House in Andover, the hub offers sensory-safe, demand-free peer support groups run by staff and volunteers, many of whom are neurodiverse themselves.
The organisation works closely with local Children’s Mental Health Teams, primary care providers, MIND and other support services. It is also represented on the Public Health Suicide Prevention scheme and has been selected to participate in the Public Health Fellowship.
Koala provides a wide range of groups, including Koala Teens, Koala Kids, Koala Adults Support Group, Koala LGBTQ+ Teens, Koala Board Games evenings, Koala Young People Not in School, Koala Toddlers, and several online support sessions. Events and sessions can be booked via Eventbrite through the charity’s website.
Tori Rist, CEO of Koala, said she was deeply moved by the size of the donation.
“We are absolutely astounded with the generous donation made by ACE and Thruxton. This money will be put to good use supporting practical projects at the hub – it really is such a help given how much charities are struggling at the moment.”
Kevin Rush of Andover Community Events paid tribute to the community effort behind the fundraising total.
“It’s an incredible figure generated from the generosity of many incredible businesses and groups that gave their time, services and support at discounted rates, if not completely free. To see 3,000 people turn up for a fantastic night of music, food and fireworks was humbling. Plans are already in place for a bigger, louder and bolder night next year.”