What’s better than a day out at York Racecourse? Raising money for people with brain injuries at the same time! Despite the awful weather Brainkind and the Star Wars-themed Phoenix Squad managed to collect a fantastic £2,873.66 in donations.

The racecourse themselves donated £1,000 as part of their Community Partnership programme. The money will go towards the outdoor space at Brainkind Neurological Centre York, just next door to the racecourse.

Star Wars meets York racegoers

Imagine turning up at York Racecourse to watch the racing and also seeing Star Wars characters wandering around! That’s exactly what happened when the Phoenix Squad, dressed as their favourite characters, joined the fundraising. Their costumes brought smiles, laughter and plenty of photo opportunities for everyone attending and helped raise awareness and donations for Brainkind. The weather was awful but the squad braved the storm and made it a day to remember.

Community partnership in action

York Racecourse’s Community Partnership programme chose Brainkind as one of their supported charities for 2024. This is what made the fundraising day at the racecourse possible. Brainkind volunteers and the Phoenix Squad worked together to collect donations.

A great example of the community coming together for a good cause – helping people with acquired brain injuries get skills back and live more independently.

Thanks everyone

It wasn’t just the Phoenix Squad who made the day a success. Brainkind volunteers and the support of York Racecourse were also key. As Tracy Calcraft, Head of Fundraising at Brainkind said, “The money raised will go towards people with acquired brain injury… Big thanks to the Phoenix Squad and the other volunteers who helped on Saturday.”

Phil Blackburn, Founder of Phoenix Squad, was also chuffed:

“Despite the awful weather we got lots of smiles, laughter and donations that will help people with acquired brain injuries.” It seems everyone had a great time while supporting a great cause.

What’s next for Brainkind and York Racecourse?

The partnership between Brainkind and York Racecourse is just starting. Phil Atkinson, Head of Operations at York Racecourse said: “We look forward to having a coffee and planning more soon.”

So even though it was raining, we were smiling and the money raised will make a big difference to people with brain injuries in York.