This July, we’re proud to introduce an award-winning local charity that’s taken great strides towards boosting community spirit and wellbeing in the York area and beyond.
First established in 2018, Move the Masses is dedicated to helping the most vulnerable people in our community to socialise, stay active, and get out and about. Its renowned Move Mates projectapplies a hearty mix of compassionate companionship and good old-fashioned exercise to support walkers of all ages and abilities, enabling them to experience the joy and benefits of movement, nature, and meaningful social connection.
Fancy a walk in your local area?
As we all know, York is a highly walkable city that’s home to world-famous historical sights and an abundance of natural beauty, however, it’s not always easy for residents to access or enjoy the picturesque wonders on their doorstep.
In order to ensure that each and every resident can stretch their legs, interact with others, and revel in their surroundings, Move the Masses has gathered a team of over 200 Move Mate ‘walking buddy’ volunteers, who work tirelessly to provide one-on-one companionship and support for all walkers, whatever their situation or circumstances.
Just hear what Mr R, a Move Mates ‘supported walker’ had to say, “I would be scared to even imagine what state of health I would be in if I did not have the opportunity to receive such invaluable help from Move Mates. They are a window to the world, a ray of light through a cloudy, dark sky. Move Mate volunteers are people who save people’s lives, who consciously and deliberately help complete strangers.”
The Move Mates project currently assists more than 300 people across York and the surrounding areas, including Selby and Pocklington. While Move Mates is primarily aimed at vulnerable individuals who may struggle with loneliness, isolation, or accessibility issues that hinder physical activity, literally anyone can get involved by joining up to help out as a volunteer.
In testament to this tireless work Move the Masses was presented with the prestigious King’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2024 at Buckingham Palace no less!
How you can help:
Unfortunately winning that award was something of a bittersweet moment. On the very same day, the charity’s board also came to the realisation that Move Mates was in a dire financial situation — one that has only worsened in the months since.
This is where we come in. With time running out, the Move Mates team is doing everything possible to save the charity in the coming weeks but still needs to secure £50,000 to maintain the charity for the next 12 months. So, they need our help.
A Go Fund Me campaign has been launched to raise vital funds, increase awareness, and rally support to ensure the future of Move the Masses. If you could share their story with friends and family, make a donation, or even host a fundraiser on their behalf, it could make a world of difference in helping to ensure the people Move Mates support continue to benefit for years to come.
Go Fund Me Page link: www.gofundme.com/f/save-move-mates
Whether you’d like to support by helping Move Mates to raise the funds they need, or would simply like to learn more about their services, then make sure to check out their website. Visit www.movemates.org.uk to learn more. You can also call 01904 373017.
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