Inspired by billionaire John Caudwell : A 7 year old’s decision sparks a wave of generosity this Christmas

In an extraordinary act of generosity, 7-year-old James “JC” Connor has shown the true spirit of Christmas by choosing to donate a special prize to raise funds for his school, rather than keep it for himself. 

His selfless act serves as a heartwarming reminder of the power of giving during the holiday season.

Instead of accepting a private suite to the Disney on Ice event at the O2 Arena, a VIP experience his parents won through a charity auction, JC decided to raffle it off and donate the proceeds to his school. Inspired by his parents, Stephen and Ha Smith, who recently joined the John Caudwell’s Philanthropy Group, The Life Changers Circle, JC was motivated to make a difference in his community.

“We won the private suite at a charity auction aimed at raising funds for supporting care workers, and we thought JC would love to invite his friends,” said his father, Stephen Smith. “But when he told us he wanted to use it to raise money for his school, we were truly amazed.”

JC’s passion for philanthropy began when he was elected by his class mates to become a school councillor. 

At his first meeting, he learned that the school needed a new climbing frame for the younger students. Inspired by this, JC decided to raise the necessary funds.

“He came home and told me the Reception Year children needed a new climbing frame, and he was determined to raise the money for it,” said his mother, Ha Smith. “We are so proud of his initiative.”

Instead of keeping the highly coveted prize, JC chose to raffle it off to help others. “I saw my parents helping others, and I wanted to do something special for my school too. It feels really good to help people,” said JC.

And this is not the first time that young JC has looked to support his school. Last year he helped organise a group of children from the school to participate in an opening event with Queen Camilla which ended with JC handing Camilla a posy of flowers.

The funds raised through the raffle will directly support educational programs, school supplies, and extracurricular activities at Our Lady & St John’s (OLSJ) Primary School, ensuring that all students have the tools and opportunities they need to succeed.

The raffle prize—a private suite at the much-anticipated Disney on Ice show at the O2 Arena—was highly sought after. Despite the initial temptation to keep it for himself, JC chose to offer it to others, with all proceeds benefiting his school. His selflessness and determination have left a lasting impact on both his peers and the local community.

"The Life Changers Circle focuses on a number of children-based charities but also acts as as a catalyst to inspire the next generation to make meaningful contributions to society, and so we couldn’t be prouder of our son for embodying these values," said Stephen and Ha Smith, who recently joined the Circle. "Seeing him choose to help others, even when it meant sacrificing something he really wanted, is a true testament to the power of giving."

John Caudwell, founder of The Life Changers Circle, praised JC’s generosity. “In these challenging times, charity is more important than ever, and JC’s selflessness is an example for us all,” he said.

Not stopping there, JC asked his parents to create a JustGiving page to raise additional funds. To date, he has raised an impressive £5,630, with contributions from family, friends, and the local community. 

When added to the monies that JC has raised through the Raffle he will have raised well over £7000 for the school that he loves so much.

This heartfelt gesture has caught the attention of the local community, with many praising JC for his mature understanding of generosity at such a young age. His school’s principal, Mrs. Cunningham, expressed admiration for his actions.

“We are incredibly proud of James Connor for demonstrating such a powerful message about the importance of giving, especially at a time when we are reminded of how essential it is to support one another. His actions inspire us all to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas,” said Mrs. Cunningham.

In a world often focused on materialism, JC stands as a beacon of kindness. His parents expressed their pride in their son’s compassionate decision, saying, “We are so proud of JC for choosing to help others. It’s moments like these that remind us all of the importance of kindness and giving back.”

This Christmas, James Connor has reminded us that the greatest gifts are those that come from the heart. His actions serve as a beautiful example of how one person’s decision to put others first can spark a wave of goodwill and generosity.

For more information or to contribute, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/jc

James “JC” Connor is a 7-year-old student at Our Lady & St John’s Primary School in Brentford, West London, known for his infectious enthusiasm and big heart. 

This Christmas, he has made a significant impact through his selfless fundraising efforts, proving that even the youngest among us can make a world of difference.

Are you ready for Giving Tuesday this year?

Giving Tuesday is observed on the Tuesday after American Thanksgiving. 

The day occurs at a time when people are starting their Chirstmas shopping. 

Exclusive deals and sales are in stores everywhere. This year it's on Tuesday Third December.

Giving Tuesday reminds us to stop and think about those less fortunate than ourselves, and raises awareness about the importance of charity and helping people in need.

Giving Tuesday is a day about community. It unites people of all backgrounds from all over the world in doing something good for others, such as volunteering, donating to charity, and lifting each other's spirits during a time of year that is more difficult for some. 

Giving Tuesday Background

Giving Tuesday stands in vivid contrast to days such as Cyber Monday and Black Friday, which are days that allow stores to sell more of their products. 

Giving Tuesday was created to inspire and encourage people to give and do good deeds. Every year millions of dollars are raised and given to those who are less fortunate.

Giving Tuesday was created back in 2012 by Henry Timms at the 92nd Street Y, a cultural and community centre in New York City. 

It was first celebrated on November 27, 2012. The announcement for this day was made one month before its commemoration by the website Mashable, a founding partner of Giving Tuesday.

That same year, Giving Tuesday was widely covered and announced by many international news sources such as The Huffington Post and ABC News, which helped spread the word about this observance. 

Throughout the years Giving Tuesday has been covered by hundreds of media outlets. It has won the support of tech giants like Google, Skype, Facebook, and Microsoft, plus the backing and support of several philanthropic and charitable foundations and organisations.

Every year, announcements about the day are shared on social media with the hashtag #GivingTuesday to help spread the word about the movement even faster and wider through the internet, encouraging people to donate. 

Celebrate Giving Tuesday

One of the most important things we can do on Giving Tuesday is to donate to charities that we like or that are important to us.

We can donate our time by volunteering, or our money by donating a sum to Giving Tuesday. You can also set up a recurring donation if you can.

If you do not have the time to volunteer or can't donate money at the minute, you can always donate clothes that you and your family no longer wear, or donate toys that your children have outgrown.

Help spread the word and inspire others to follow your lead by sharing information about #GivingTuesday on your Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and even on your family and friends’ group chats. 

The important thing on Giving Tuesday is to do something good for others in any way we can, and even a little bit of help will have a huge impact on the world. 

How to Support Charities in Need Over the Christmas Period

Christmas is a time of joy, celebration, and giving. While many of us look forward to festive feasts, exchanging gifts, and spending quality time with loved ones, it's important to remember that not everyone is fortunate enough to experience this abundance. 

For countless individuals and families, the festive season can be a time of hardship, with many struggling to afford basic necessities, let alone celebrate.

Charities play a vital role in supporting those in need, but they often face increased demand over Christmas. If you're looking to make a difference this holiday season, there are many ways you can support charities and help spread kindness and joy. Whether you have money, time, or resources to offer, every bit of help counts. Here’s how you can contribute meaningfully this Christmas.

1. Donate to Food Banks

Food banks see a significant rise in demand during the Christmas period. For those facing food insecurity, the festive season can be especially challenging, with higher expenses and colder weather making it harder to make ends meet.

Ways to help:

Donate non-perishable items: Tinned foods, pasta, rice, cereals, and toiletries are always in demand. Check with your local food bank for their most needed items.

Monetary donations: If you’re short on time, financial donations can go a long way. Many food banks can buy in bulk and make your money stretch further.

Festive treats: Consider donating Christmas-specific items like mince pies, chocolate, or festive biscuits. These small luxuries can help make someone’s Christmas a bit brighter.

2. Support Toy and Gift Drives

For families struggling to make ends meet, buying presents for children can be an impossible challenge. Many charities and organisations run toy and gift drives to ensure that every child has a gift to open on Christmas morning.

How you can help:

Donate new, unwrapped toys: Many supermarkets, schools, and community centres have collection points for toy donations.

Gifts for teenagers and adults: Don’t forget that older children and adults are often overlooked. Consider donating gifts like books, toiletries, cosy socks, or vouchers.

Adopt a family: Some charities allow you to “adopt” a family for Christmas, where you provide gifts and essentials for the holiday season.

3. Volunteer Your Time

Not all contributions need to be financial. Giving your time is one of the most valuable ways to support a charity. Many organisations need extra hands during the festive season to distribute food, sort donations, or organise community events.

Consider volunteering for:

Soup kitchens or homeless shelters: Serving meals, preparing food parcels, or simply providing a friendly face can make a huge difference.

Care homes: Many elderly people spend Christmas alone. Volunteering to visit a local care home, helping with activities, or simply chatting with residents can bring warmth and companionship.

Crisis hotlines: The festive season can be a particularly lonely and stressful time for many. If you have the necessary training or are willing to undergo it, consider volunteering for a mental health or crisis hotline.

4. Support Homeless Charities

Winter is a particularly difficult time for those experiencing homelessness. Cold weather, isolation, and a lack of resources can make this time of year especially harsh. Homeless charities work tirelessly to provide shelter, hot meals, and support, but they rely heavily on donations and volunteers.

Ways to support homeless charities:

Donate warm clothing: Hats, gloves, scarves, and thick socks are essential for those sleeping rough. Consider donating new or gently used winter clothing.

Sponsor a bed: Many charities run programmes where you can sponsor a bed for someone for a night, week, or even the entire festive period.

Create care packages: Putting together small packs with essentials like hygiene products, snacks, bottled water, and a warm pair of socks can provide comfort to those in need.

5. Make Financial Donations

If you’re short on time but want to help, a monetary donation to a charity can be one of the most effective ways to make a difference. Financial contributions provide charities with the flexibility to use the funds where they are needed most, whether that’s stocking food shelves, funding emergency support, or buying necessary supplies.

Tips for donating:

Choose a reputable charity: Do a bit of research to ensure your donation goes to a legitimate organisation. Websites like the Charities Commission can help verify a charity’s status.

Set up a regular donation: While one-off donations are wonderful, setting up a small monthly donation can provide charities with a steady stream of income throughout the year.

Gift in someone's name: If you're looking for a meaningful Christmas present, consider donating to a charity on behalf of a loved one.

6. Donate Blood

While it’s easy to overlook, donating blood is a vital way to support those in need, especially during winter when supplies can dwindle due to illness and holiday travel. Blood donations save lives, and the need for blood is constant, particularly during the busy festive season.

How to get involved:

Find a local blood drive: The NHS Blood and Transplant service regularly runs donation sessions. Check their website to find a session near you.

Spread the word: Encourage friends and family to donate as well, especially if they’ve never done so before. Every donation can save multiple lives.

7. Support Local Charities and Community Initiatives

While national charities are essential, don’t forget the smaller, local organisations that may be in desperate need of help. Your support can have a direct impact on your local community.

Ideas to consider:

Community kitchens and shelters: Many local churches and community centres run programmes to support those in need during Christmas.

Sponsor a local charity event: Whether it’s a Christmas market, carol concert, or fundraising bake sale, supporting these events can help raise vital funds for smaller charities.

Shop with a purpose: Some local shops, markets, and online businesses donate a portion of their profits to charity. By choosing these sellers, you can support good causes while doing your Christmas shopping.

Final Thoughts

Christmas is a time for giving, and the true spirit of the season lies in helping those who are less fortunate. Whether it’s donating money, time, or resources, every little bit can make a world of difference for someone in need. In a season filled with abundance, let’s not forget the power of kindness, generosity, and community spirit.

This Christmas, challenge yourself to go beyond the usual gift-giving traditions and make a positive impact. Whether it’s helping a local charity, supporting a neighbour, or simply spreading kindness, together we can ensure that the festive spirit reaches everyone.

Happy Christmas, and may your season be filled with joy, love, and the warmth that comes from giving back.

Spreading Warmth and Hope: Helping Homeless Charities at Christmas

As the Christmas season approaches, our hearts are filled with warmth, joy, and a strong desire to share with those in need. For the homeless population, the Christmas season can be particularly challenging. 

The biting cold, the isolation, and the absence of family can make this time of year incredibly difficult for them. 

However, there is much that we can do to make a difference in their lives. In this blog post, we will explore ways in which you can contribute to homeless charities during the Christmas season, spreading hope and love.

Volunteer Your Time

One of the most valuable gifts you can give to homeless charities during the Christmas season is your time. Volunteers are the lifeblood of these organisations. There are numerous tasks that require assistance, from serving hot meals at shelters to organising charity collections. Spending your time and energy helping out can have a profound impact on the lives of those less fortunate.

Donate Warm Clothing and Supplies

Winter can be brutal for those living on the streets, and having warm clothing is essential for survival. Donating blankets, coats, gloves, scarves, and socks can make a significant difference. You can also provide basic hygiene supplies, such as toiletries and sanitary items, as well as non-perishable food items.

Financial Contributions

Monetary donations are incredibly helpful for homeless charities. They can use these funds to provide shelter, food, medical care, and rehabilitation services to those in need. Consider making a one-time donation or setting up a recurring contribution to ensure ongoing support.

Support Local Initiatives

Many communities have local initiatives and campaigns aimed at helping the homeless during Christmas. Find out what's happening in your area and get involved. Attend fundraisers, participate in charity runs, or collaborate with local businesses that are running campaigns to support homeless charities.

Organize Fundraisers

You don't have to be part of a charity organisation to make a difference. Organise your own fundraisers, such as a charity bake sale, car wash, or a charity auction. Get your friends and family involved to increase the impact of your efforts.

Provide Christmas Meals

Christmas is a time for feasting and celebrating with loved ones. Extend this joy to those in need by organizing Christmas meals at local shelters or soup kitchens. Gather a group of volunteers to prepare and serve a warm, festive meal, bringing a bit of holiday cheer to those who may have nowhere else to go.

Raise Awareness

Spread the word about the importance of helping homeless charities during the Christmas season. Use your social media platforms and other communication channels to raise awareness about the struggles homeless individuals face and encourage others to join in the effort to make a difference.

Christmas is a season of giving, and one of the most meaningful ways to celebrate is by helping homeless charities. Whether you volunteer your time, donate supplies, contribute financially, or organize your own initiatives, your efforts can bring warmth, hope, and joy to those who need it most.

Remember that even small acts of kindness can have a big impact, and together, we can make the world a better place for everyone, especially during the holiday season. Let's spread love and compassion, making this Christmas a time of generosity and empathy for all.

(Image courtesy Brigitte Werner from Pixabay)