Former Lord Mayor raises £21,450 for Exeter Dementia Action Alliance
Published: 18 May 2023
A total of £21,450 has been raised by Exeter’s former Lord Mayor for the Exeter Dementia Action Alliance.
The five figure sum was collected by Cllr Yolonda Henson during her term as Lord Mayor of Exeter from May 2022 until May 2023.
The charity has thanked the outgoing Lord Mayor and all those who helped raise such a large sum of money and raise much needed awareness for dementia and the local group.
“It’s hard to believe it’s been a year since we were selected as the Lord Mayors charity of the year, and what an incredible year it’s been,” said Gina Awad, of the Exeter Dementia Action Alliance.
“From 11 coffee mornings to a baton relay, dementia charity events including John Stiles visiting us in Exeter to talk about his football dad, Nobby Stiles, the Really Big Quiz with Simpkins Edwards and much more.
“We at the Exeter Dementia Action Alliance are grateful beyond words for the incredible support of so many selfless volunteers, bakers, musicians, sponsors, the Lord Mayor Mrs Yolanda Henson, the Mayoralty team including Emara Roth, Nicola Stewart, John Street and the wonderful Mace Sergeants who made everything so seamless with their support. We thank you all.”
The funds received will support the Alliance to continue its mission for dementia in the city raising awareness, delivery of information sessions and engaging with partner organisations.
“We are also keen to create an accessible infographic resource where families affected by dementia can go to and understand where the various services and support exist in our community. We regularly hear from families who are struggling to navigate the local health and social care system and pathway post-diagnosis,” added Gina.
“The Alliance is a small group of passionate individuals who recognise the complexities of dementia. While we don’t deliver a direct service, we are instrumental in making connections, sharing our knowledge/experience and addressing the challenges for families affected by dementia.
“Being the Lord Mayor’s charity of the year for 22/23 has enabled us to be more visible in the city as well as raising vital funds for our community, so again our sincere thank you to all involved.”
Former Lord Mayor, Yolonda Henson, who has now retired from the City Council following decades of representing local communities, said: “I am so delighted that we have been able to raise such a fantastic amount of money for the wonderful Exeter Dementia Action Alliance.
"A lot of hard work took place during the year, and I am absolutely delighted that we have been able to support such a great cause, one which does such great work for so many people in the community. I want to thank everyone has has contributed to this through all the fundraising that has taken place."