We are delighted to celebrate the Widows Sons Masonic Bikers Association membership of our Platinum Partner programme, following their incredible fundraising efforts over the past two years which resulted in them reaching their fundraising target well ahead of schedule.
Lifelites has long been the recipient of support from Widows Sons chapters and individual members, with the Association supporting our ‘Lift for Lifelites’ fundraising campaigns in 2018 and 2019.
The Association is a unique and vibrant part of Freemasonry, and their passion for motorbikes gives them a very visible presence, especially during fundraising activities where they draw huge interest from the general public.
Widow’s Sons Chair, Gregory Kirby, spoke about the longstanding support for Lifelites amongst their various chapters and members:
“This is a no brainer for us. Who would not want to help children in need? Our membership have demonstrated their commitment to raise funds in ways and means that always impress. We are very happy to be associated with such a good cause and long may we continue to support Lifelites to fulfil their objectives.”
The Widows Sons approached Lifelites about becoming a Platinum Partner in 2022. The scheme sees supporters pledge to donate a minimum of £5k per year for four years.
However, the association rode to the challenge, raising £20k in under half that time. Greg explained how they achieved their success:
“We got there through individuals such as W. Bro Jim Hayward’s Croyde Ocean Triathlon – Olympic distance event (pictured); individual Widows Sons personal donations, Chapters large and small donating according to their means; The Lifelites Annual Presidents Ball; National Rally proceeds. Natter Night alms collections, and many more initiatives. Alongside the above, Chapters have donated Easter Eggs and Toys direct to children’s hospices throughout the land.”
Buoyed by their success, the Widows Sons announced they would continue to fundraise for the assistive technology and support services Lifelites provides free to almost 60 palliative care partners across Britain and Ireland.
Following a hugely successful President’s Ball in February, which Lifelites was honoured to attend, Greg and fellow members, Steve Dixon, President Surrey Chapter, Martin Cargill, President Iceni, Martin Ward, Shires and National Treasurer, Terry Hall & Kurt Schenk SE Cornerstones, attended our head office in March to present us with a cheque for £20k and confirm the start of a new campaign that would see Widows Sons Chapters across Britain raising further vital funds.
Simon Pitts, Head of Fundraising and Communications at Lifelites, said: “We are proud of our partnership with Freemasonry and the tireless support of the Widows Sons is a fantastic example of the vital role Freemasons play in helping us support over 12,500 children with life-limiting conditions each and every year. A massive thank you to Greg, Steve and all Widows Sons who share our belief that every child deserves a childhood of joy, fun and connectivity.”
In May 2024, Widows Sons kick-started their new campaign with a fantastic £2,000 donation from the Leicester and Rutland Widows Sons chapter, plus an incredible £12,250 from funds collected at the 2023 national Rally hosted by Parisi, Ridings and Lincs Imps, and from the annual Widows Sons Lifelites President’s Ball.
In addition, Widows Sons member Simon Berriman is taking on the mammoth ‘Chase the Sun’ bike ride from the west coast of Scotland to the east coast of England on Sunday 21st June. He has already raised a whopping £1,116 for children with life-limiting conditions. If you would like to support Simon and can make a sponsorship donation of any amount, please visit his fundraising page (https://www.justgiving.com/page/simon-berriman-1711974417148)
In total, over £15,000 has been gifted to Lifelites in just the first two months of the Widows Sons’ campaign for 2024, putting them well on the way to their £50,000 target.
Congratulations, thank you so much and good luck with all your amazing fundraising!
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