Last year I danced 60km to raise money for FUN STUFF for the kids in my community of Pollokshields. This year between 13-22 December 2021 I plan to dance ONE HUNDRED KM to raise money for fun afterschool activities for kids.

As a working solo parent I am aware how important local and accessible activities are for families. Very sadly Pollokshields has gone from 4 community centres to NONE (we also used to have a swimming pool!). It goes without saying this has a detrimental effect on children and families.

It is really difficult (even with the best will in the world) to provide opportunities for *my* child and work. For many families with extensive caring and work responsibilities an activity that goes outside the East Pollokshields boundary it is impossible.

For me to access one of the council run activities at my 'local' sports centre, I will pay at least £12 per week in travel and activity costs. This is not possible for many families in time (3 hour return trip on bus) or money.

Fun activities such as sport, music and of course dance, all contribute to healthy kids in body, spirit and mind. Not only that, they provide positive outlets for kids to develop social skills and channel creative energies. We are now facing the worst mental health crisis in our children we have ever seen. We need to direct our energies and focus to provide normal fun stuff for them to explore and be children again.

There has always been a call for more local activities. The wish to do more fun and creative stuff is HUGE. As an example Pollokshields Primary always gets four times as many kids requesting to participate then they have space for in their afterschool program. When they run their community club they get EIGHTY KIDS showing up. But when there is nothing. These kids are left with no opportunity, or chances.

I want to raise £5000 to support greater afterschool opportunities for local kids. I will be directing my funds towards the Glasgow Guitar Academy and Urban Roots as partners who have a good track record here - as well as leaving other options open for sport and other creative ventures (dance/drama/art etc) whom the local schools (Pollokshields Primary, Glendale, Gleann Daill and St. Alberts) might have links with.

I think this will contribute to a vibrant and happy community. Supporting and celebrating the talents and potential of ALL it's children. And THAT is something to dance about!

Thank you and ho ho ho!!!