2024 Community Fundraiser of the Year
Meet the winners of the Community Fundraiser of the Year 2024.
Ralph White has climbed the height of Everest for Parkinson’s research, and Jennie Stevens completed the Winter Spine Race, raising £21,600 for scholarships.
Ralph White - Joint Community Fundraiser of the Year 2024
Fundraising is truly for everyone, and Ralph White exemplifies this beautifully.
At 90 years of age, Ralph undertook the challenging task of climbing the height of Mount Everest (29,031 ft) by repeat-climbing Glastonbury Tor. He embarked on this mission to raise funds for Parkinson’s Disease research at the University of Sheffield.
After 55 climbs, Ralph reached his goal. But he didn’t stop there. He extended his challenge to climb the Tor 100 times, all in time for his 91st birthday!
Ralph’s unwavering optimism and dedication are a joy to witness. The people he meets, inspires, and is inspired by in return are at the heart of his challenge. During each climb, Ralph speaks to those he meets about his challenge, serving as an outstanding ambassador for Sheffield’s ground-breaking Parkinson’s Disease research.
Ralph’s Just Giving page is filled with messages of support and encouragement from strangers who have become friends through his walks:
You made my day when I met you on the Tor today! So lovely to chat with you Ralph. You are an inspiration."
"What an amazing, inspiring man - what a privilege it was to meet you”
"Captain Tom has a rival! Keep lubricating those joints - and not with scrumpy.”
The real driving force behind Ralph’s fundraising is his personal connection to Parkinson’s Disease. A close family member recently received this devastating diagnosis, and in response, Ralph has created a celebration of hope and togetherness with each climb.
Ralph’s commitment to climbing the Tor is positively impacting so many people, not only by raising vital funds for Parkinson's Disease research but also by forging wonderful human connections.
Well done, Ralph! Long may you continue scaling the Tor and inspiring those you meet for many years to come.
Jennie Stevens - Joint Community Fundraiser of the Year 2024
Racing 268 miles over 141 hours, with just 12 hours of sleep, is not for the faint of heart. But this was the challenge Jennie Stevens set herself when she embarked on her Winter Spine challenge.
The Winter Spine Race, widely renowned as one of the toughest endurance races in the world, sees participants traverse the entire Pennine Way in brutal weather conditions with very little rest. Jennie put her body and mind to the ultimate test to raise funds for three promising female students to receive a Sheffield Scholarship starting their university journey this September.
Jennie’s determination to succeed, no matter the odds, shines though. And her passion and openness resonated deeply with her supporters. Over the course of her six day epic challenge, Jennie’s endeavour became the talk of many staff and locals. She received nearly 500 JustGiving donations and countless messages of her support, sending positive vibes to push her towards the finish line.
Congratulations Jennie! We’ve been following your progress, what an achievement - your determination and resilience is really inspiring.”
"I love people who will go that extra mile for those in need. You're a good ‘un.”
"As a scholarship recipient and an avid dot watcher who's too scared to sign up himself, I'm very happy to donate here instead. Well done!”
Not only did Jennie reach her goal, but she greatly surpassed it, raising over £21,600. This will support six female students with a scholarship this September. Thanks to Jennie’s sheer determination, grit, and candid approach, she has inspired her colleagues, fans of the sport, and strangers alike to support her, resulting in this momentous and impactful fundraising achievement.
Well done, Jennie! We are all very proud of you!