Smart Works Leeds raises a record-breaking £25k through its International Women’s Day campaign
A women’s employment charity in Leeds has raised a record-breaking sum of money after staging a week of inspiring events across Yorkshire to mark International Women’s Day.
Smart Works Leeds raised £25,000 through its biggest ever programme of activity where events included a fashion sale at Bradford’s Darley Street Market and a breakfast panel at the First Direct Bank Arena.
The money raised will support Smart Works’ services to help women access the workplace through career coaching and personal styling.
One of the standout moments of the campaign was the Cow and Calf abseil challenge where 60 women including former The Apprentice winner Rachel Woolford, and Primed for Life, a collective of high-profile Yorkshire women promoting the visibility and wellbeing of women of all ages, descended the iconic Ilkley landmark to raise funds for the charity.
The charity abseil was also cheered on by supporters including Coronation Street actress Natalie Anderson.
Another highlight was the ‘Women’s Wealth and Wellbeing’ day at Grantley Hall, Ripon, which raised an incredible £6,000.
Supported by headline sponsor Leeds first direct bank arena, the campaign brought together empowering storytelling, community fundraising and business engagement to raise vital funds for the charity’s life-changing services.
The funds raised mark the highest total ever achieved through Smart Works Leeds’ annual International Women’s Day campaign.
Tracy Fletcher, chair of Smart Works Leeds, thanked the Yorkshire community for their support.
Tracy said: “We are absolutely thrilled that our first-ever week-long International Women’s Day campaign has raised a record £25,000. The level of support from businesses, partners and individuals across Yorkshire has been incredible and we are so grateful to everyone who took part, donated or helped organise events.
“These funds will make a real difference, helping us support even more women into employment giving them the confidence, opportunity and access to support that can transform their lives. Thanks to the generosity of the Yorkshire community, many more women will now receive the coaching, clothing and encouragement they need to succeed in their careers.”