Julie Long, Fundraising Manager, on why supporters like Purple Horizons do more than raise money
Some meetings stay with you not because of the setting but because of the people.
On one of the hottest days of the year, I had the pleasure of sitting down with five remarkable women from Purple Horizons, a group whose heart for community shines as brightly as the July sun we were doing our best to shelter from.
What began years ago as a philanthropic circle of four mums has grown into a Community Interest Company with a powerful history of supporting good causes.
Their creativity, compassion and determination have already raised over £67,000 for local good causes, with over two thousand pounds for Ormiston Families.
Whether through their much-loved Paint It Purple events, or through lectures, exhibitions or health events, 90% of what Purple Horizons raise goes directly to the causes they support. For the families we support, their impact is real and already felt, with £2,000 representing approximately 100 hours of specialist, therapeutic support already funded.
These amazing women have all navigated the realities of family life. They understand that when something hits a family with one of its biggest life challenges, support is not a luxury.
It is essential, and we couldn’t be more grateful for their continued fundraising support. With every pound they raise, they are helping us safeguard childhoods and secure future life chances.
Art Exhibition in St Neots on 18 July
Our conversation centred on their next major venture, a vibrant art exhibition at St Neots Golf Club on 18 July. We are thrilled to be one of their chosen beneficiaries.
The exhibition will showcase new and emerging local talent, alongside celebrated artists, showcasing creativity, while helping us continue our vital work with children and families. Funds raised for Ormiston Families on this day will used across our services, where it is needed the most, including supporting:
- Children impacted by parental offending
- Enrichment activities in our family prison visitor centres
- Children affected by parental bereavement
- Peer to peer SEND support groups in Fenland
- Mothers navigating the loss of a child to the care system
Pens and Pencils for Children
Purple Horizons are also collecting art materials for our support services, ensuring the children we work with have access to child-friendly, creative tools that help them express and explore their emotions alongside a highly trained family support worker.
The team is also preparing for their dazzling Art Ball on 8 October. More details to follow shortly.
A Partnership Built on Purpose
Meeting these five women reminded me how powerful community can be. As an independent and local charity, we rely on the support of fundraisers like Purple Horizons.
Their journey from a small group of mums to a CIC with real impact is inspiring, and we are honoured that they continue to champion Ormiston Families.
To contact Julie about fundraising ideas, events or initiatives, email julie.long@ormistonfamilies.org.uk
Dylan’s Story
“About a year ago I woke up to the sound of banging on the front door. It was pitch black outside and the loud noise frightened me. The door was broken down and I heard lots of shouting downstairs. It was the Police. They had come to arrest my Dad but I didn’t know what he had done wrong…”
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