Miniature Donkeys in Norfolk are supporting people with their mental health
MiniDonks has launched a new fundraising initiative so they can help more people.
Miniature Donkeys for Wellbeing, a Norfolk social enterprise that provides mood-boosting miniature donkey visits to people in care homes and other residential settings, has launched a new fundraising initiative: Many Miles for MiniDonks.
Throughout June, people are being asked to get moving and cover as many miles as possible; in return for sponsorship to raise money for a series of MiniDonks Pop-up Farm Experiences.
Sarah McPherson is the founder and managing director of Miniature Donkeys for Wellbeing. She started the social enterprise after both her parents developed dementia and gained greatly from interacting with her two miniature donkeys. Sarah says:
"Our hope is that the MiniDonks Pop-Up Farm Experiences will allow even more people with life-limiting conditions to get up close and personal with our wonderful herd of miniature donkeys, plus lots of other animals.”
"We know that spending time with animals can bring genuine therapeutic benefits and moments of pure joy to people living with complex disabilities and conditions such as dementia; even those people who are largely considered to be 'locked-in'. It's our mission to bring a touch of MiniDonk magic to as many individuals and communities as possible."
Many Miles for MiniDonks is taking place throughout the month and people can choose how, when, where and how far they travel.
The idea was inspired by MinDonks supporter Ian Hytch, who has set himself the challenge of walking 80 miles in 8 days in his 80th year. Ian is walking in memory of his friend Dr. Nick Ireland who sadly died in an accident before he could join Ian in his challenge.
Ian's walk will finish on Saturday 26th June at Runton Road car-park in Cromer, where the MiniDonk herd will be waiting to meet him. Friends and supporters are invited to come along and meet the donkeys and donate to the fundraising efforts where The MiniDonks pop-up shop will be too.
People who would like to make a donation to the MiniDonks Pop-up Farm Experiences fund can visit the Many Miles for MiniDonks Justgiving page.
The five most inspirational fundraisers will be invited to the MiniDonks yard to meet the herd and will also be presented with a Magical MiniDonks Merchandise Goodie Bag.
You can find out more on the MiniDonks website.