How Eastboune cricketers could get help from Les Ferdinand and Adam Peaty

It is one of 75 clubs across the country carefully chosen by sport organisation GiveToLocal as a standard bearer for fundraising potential.

And after coming through a stringent selection process, Eastbourne is already close to transforming its long-term financial future.

“We are always looking to increase our funding opportunities,” explained club member Jon Purdey.

“Eastbourne is a very progressive and inclusive cricket club. We run four Saturday sides as well as a ladies team and a number of junior sides.

“At the minute, we are looking to develop our already fantastic playing facilities further to provide an extra added benefit to the local community.

“That’s why this opportunity with GiveToLocal is an ideal partnership for us!”

GiveToLocal was launch-ed in 2019 and works with more than 55,000 teams across 15 sports.

Its aim is to pump an additional £10m into community sport annually by backing sport, boosting business and building networks.

High profile supporters include former England striker Les Ferdinand, England World Cup winning cricketer Mark Wood and Olympic swimmer Adam Peaty.

GiveToLocal’s Focus Clubs initiative was launched in order to find clubs across the country capable of showcasing sport’s power and positivity in the face of the coronavirus pandemic.

Focus Clubs gain early access to the latest version of the GiveToLocal app and receive extra support from staff dedicated to helping teams connect to donors and local sponsors.

Connecting with the local community is the first step towards securing vital, sustainable funding.

“It’s fantastic to have Eastbourne on board as a Focus Club,” said GiveToLocal CEO Neil Gardiner.

“Their application stood out from the crowd and we feel they can help to encourage more cricket clubs get on board with GiveToLocal.

“Eastbourne has a track record for playing a key role at the heart of their local community and fundraising is something they already do very well.

“We’re here to take them to the next level by helping them to secure the sustainable funding that can ensure lasting, positive change.

“As a Focus Club, Eastbourne has the opportunity to point the way when it comes to realising fundraising potential.”

Via the groundbreaking GiveToLocal app, Eastbourne has the potential to connect with hundreds of local donors.

Donors are asked to pledge a minimum of £3 per month and in return they can access a growing number of offers from local businesses.

GiveToLocal is working closely with Eastbourne to bring on board local businesses as sponsors. A minimum £8 per month donation can connect firms at the heart of the community with new customers and help to support sport in the process.

“Regular sustainable income would mean we could continue our Forward Drive Scheme and expand our free provision for young people too,” added Purdey.

“We are continually looking at ways we can develop the experience of the young people, whilst also benefiting our adult members.

“We would also like to increase the number of bowling machines we have at the club to further develop the experience we offer.”

For more information on how your club could benefit from becoming part of the GiveToLocal community www.givetolocal.com/clubs to register now.

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