CoolKit, the UK’s leading specialist in temperature-controlled vans, has become a patron of Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone only months after opening its new headquarters in the town.
By becoming a patron, CoolKit joins a distinguished network of businesses that collectively fund 50% of the Youth Zone’s operational costs which is crucial in sustaining and expanding the valuable services and opportunities offered to the young people of Blackburn and Darwen.
Gill Hayes, finance manager at CoolKit, said: “We are passionate about supporting our local communities and believe that we are more than just an employer and want to show that by making a difference in our community so, therefore, we decided to become a patron and to raise money for Blackburn Youth Zone.”
She added: “Along with our Head of People Georgina Grice, I was given a tour of the Youth Zone by Head of Fundraising Mel Thomas. We were so impressed by the work they do and the positive influence they have on young people’s lives.”
Chairman of the Youth Zone Wayne Wild MBE said: “We are immensely grateful to welcome CoolKit as a patron. Their support will play a crucial role in helping us continue to provide essential services and create a positive impact on the lives of young people in our area.”
The partnership demonstrates CoolKit’s dedication to its ESG and community engagement. As a Patron, CoolKit will actively participate in initiatives that drive positive change and support the holistic development of the region’s youth.
The Youth Zone has over 5,000 members and is a vital cornerstone of the community. It offers a safe and inspiring environment for children and young people aged 5 to 19 (and up to 25 through the Youth Hub). It provides a wide range of activities and programmes focused on three key pillars: skills and aspirations, cohesion, and health and well-being.
CoolKit’s first fundraising event is on July 6 when staff and friends are taking on the challenge of walking the Yorkshire Three Peaks in 12 hours. Half of the money raised will be donated to the Youth Zone the rest will go to other local charities.
July 6 is the date of the first anniversary of the fire which destroyed CoolKit’s main production unit in Burnley. Since then, the business has bounced back bigger and better and has taken over a larger factory in Thornley Avenue, Blackburn, where its headquarters are now based, Some production has also been retained in Burnley.
Apart from sponsorship CoolKit intends hosting site tours at its factory for interested young people, presenting them with possible future career choices, at the same time as supporting BYZ’s employment hub.
In addition, CoolKit staff will volunteer and attend events organised by the Youth Zone.
