Introducing our Charity of the Year 2017

Each year we choose an amazing cause for a dedicated year-long fundraising campaign, and we’re proud to reveal our Charity of the Year 2017 will be Danielle’s Flutterbyes.

The Nottingham-based charity helps young people suffering from kidney disease by funding recreational activities, days out, holidays and equipment to make life more bearable while they’re receiving treatment.

About the charity

Danielle’s Flutterbyes was set up in memory of Danielle Stretton, who sadly lost her fight against kidney failure in 2014. As well as being an incredible cause, the charity was set up by one of our homeowners, who shared her story with us.

Sarah Taylor, Danielle’s sister and co-founder of Danielle’s Flutterbyes, said: “We are so pleased to have been chosen as Strata’s Charity of the Year. We’ve seen and heard so much about Strata’s fundraising efforts and know how committed they are to making a real difference.

“For four years, we saw Danielle suffer as a young adult on dialysis and we want to help those that are experiencing the same struggles. Through partners like Strata, we can make a difference and help young people who are faced with the same challenges.

“We can put a smile back on their faces, help them to do something fun and feel more comfortable so they don’t skip treatment. Most of all we can help them to feel life is worth living and fighting for.”

The charity was set up in 2015 by Sarah, Danielle’s mum and a family friend, and was given its name because of Danielle’s love of butterflies. It has already funded a young patient to compete in the 2016 British Transplant Games, provided driving lessons and co-ordinated day trips for young patients.

Commitment to the cause

Our Charity and Events Manager Leonie Weaver is already busy planning an exciting year full of fundraising activities.

“When we first heard about Danielle’s Flutterbyes, we were immediately touched by their story and drawn to their strength and bravery to set up a charity out of such tragic circumstances,” says Leonie. “To help others despite being unable to help their own sister and daughter is probably one of the most selfless things you could ever do.

“They are so kind and inspirational, we are thrilled to be able to support them as our Charity of the Year 2017. We are now looking forward to working with them to raise more awareness about this life-threatening disease.”

Following our success last year, when we raised more than £90,000 for Leeds-based charity Little Hiccups, we’re looking forward to a fun year of fundraising as much as we can for Danielle’s Flutterbyes.