Raymond James Joins Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone as Patron to Support Local Young People
Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone is proud to announce that Raymond James has joined its growing Patron network, committing vital funding to support the charity’s work with thousands of young people across the borough.
Raymond James, a leading wealth management firm, has pledged its support to the Youth Zone’s Patron network – a collective of local and national businesses that fund the core running costs of the facility. This contribution will help ensure that Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone can continue to provide a safe, inspiring, and inclusive space for young people aged 5–19, and up to 25 for those with additional needs and through the Youth Hub.
Open seven days a week, Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone supports over 5,000 young people, offering more than 20 activities per session, from sports and creative arts to employability and wellbeing programmes. The charity relies heavily on the generosity of its Patron network, which contributes around 50% of its annual income.
Leon Crosby, Chief Executive of Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone, said:
“We are absolutely delighted to welcome Raymond James as a Patron of Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone. Their support demonstrates a real commitment to investing in the future of our young people and our community. Patrons play a crucial role in enabling us to keep our doors open and provide life-changing opportunities every single day.”
Through their Patronage, Raymond James will not only provide financial support but will also have opportunities to engage with the Youth Zone’s work, including corporate volunteering, supporting young people via the youth hub, and seeing first-hand the impact of their investment.
Wayne Hayhurt, Chartered Wealth Manager & Branch Principal from Raymond James, said:
“We are proud to become a Patron of Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone and support the incredible work being done for young people in the area. The Youth Zone provides opportunities that can truly change lives, and we are pleased to play a part in helping sustain and grow that impact. We are also excited to be joining a network of over 80 like-minded business leaders who are passionate about making a difference in their community.”
The Patron network brings together businesses that share a vision of creating a stronger, more inclusive community by supporting young people to develop skills, confidence, and aspirations for the future.
For more information about Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone or how to become a Patron, please contact the fundraising team or email melanie.thomas@blackburnyz.org