As one of the ten charities chosen by The Pennies Foundation to receive a share of 25% of every donation, The Prince’s Trust has been involved with Pennies since we launched in late 2010.
The charity also has a successful partnership with Zizzi, whose customers frequently choose to top up their bill by 20p through Pennies.
Altogether, over £50,000 has been raised for The Prince’s Trust and the money has been used to support projects that help young people get the skills, confidence and motivation they need to move into work and education. The success of one green-fingered young person demonstrates the great impact this charity, and your pennies, can have on people’s lives.
Supporting young people like Kevin
After being pointed towards The Prince’s Trust by the job centre, Kevin Lawrence signed up for the Enterprise Programme, which helps unemployed young people to start-up in business.
From an early age, Kevin suffered from speech and language difficulties. As well as this, he was diagnosed with ADHD, dyslexia and autistic tendencies. These challenges left him frustrated and his disabilities made him a vulnerable target for bullying. Harassment at work triggered the descent into depression and he turned to gardening as an escape.
Turning this passion into a career, he used the £500 loan he was awarded as part of the Enterprise Programme to buy equipment to start his company – Kevin Lawrence Garden Services – and received invaluable advice from his Business Mentor. Kevin now has 50 loyal customers and maintains the grounds of two churches. He provides a valuable service to his community and has achieved the independence that he has always strived for.
“Without the support of The Prince’s Trust, I wouldn’t have the skills or money to start my own business. I am proud at the success of my business and I am confident that it will continue”
Kevin Lawrence, Prince’s Trust beneficiary
So next time you choose to donate through Pennies, whether it’s at Zizzi or any of our participating retailers, remember that part of your donation is helping to make a difference to the lives of people like Kevin.
Click here to watch a short film about Kevin’s inspirational story.
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