Future secured for activity centre!

Calvert Exmoor has confirmed that it will remain open after successfully raising £500,000 through a crowdfunding campaign. 

The activity centre, which provides accessible breaks and activities for people with disabilities, had been facing a severe financial crisis, leading to concerns about potential closure and staff redundancies.

The emergency fundraiser, launched to secure the centre’s future, reached its target on August 31, with over 2,200 individuals and businesses contributing to the total, which now has raised more than £500,000.

The funds will be used to sustain operations into 2025, maintain the on-site horses, restructure internally, and invest in new bunkhouse accommodation.

The centre has now introduced a stretch target of £600,000.

On their Crowdfunder page, they said the stretch target is: “To cover these losses in income and allow our centre to thrive, as oppose to just surviving!”

In a statement from the staff, they expressed their deep gratitude: “We are overjoyed and deeply grateful. After three weeks of tireless campaigning and unwavering support from thousands of incredible people, we have made it! You’ve raised more than £500,000. Thank you, thank you, thank you! Against all the odds, we’ve succeeded in saving Calvert Exmoor, thanks to your generosity and belief in our centre.”

The statement continued, highlighting the impact of every contribution: “Every donation, every share, every interaction with our social media posts, has made a difference. Whether you are one of many individual supporters, a business, or a Trust or Foundation, your contribution has been vital. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has helped make this campaign a success.”

Looking ahead, the centre is preparing to implement changes to secure a sustainable financial future.

“We are moving forward with bold plans to diversify our income streams and secure a sustainable financial future. We are fully committed to making the necessary changes to strengthen our charity for the long term. With these new strategies, we are confident that we can continue to provide the exceptional experiences that so many of you know and love at Calvert Exmoor.”

Calvert Exmoor plans to share more details about its next steps and future plans with the Gazette in due course.

In the meantime, the centre is encouraging continued support through bookings. 

“Getting back to providing life-enhancing breaks and activities has been the driving force behind our efforts, and we’re thrilled to welcome you to our centre. Continuing to use our facilities is the best way you can help ensure our future even further.”

For more information about Calvert Exmoor, visit www.calvertexmoor.org.uk or call 01598 763221 for enquiries about breaks, day activities, or horse riding lessons.