Regional youth charity, Essex Boys & Girls Clubs, has been shortlisted for a Lloyds Bank Community Fund award in 2013!

Although based in Chelmsford, the charity oversees youth clubs in Uttlesford including Saffron Walden, Gt Chesterfield, Newport, Thaxted, Ashdon & Finchingfield (just over the border!). It is one of four good causes in the Chelmsford area with a chance of winning a £3,000 grant, and the final decision is down to a public vote.

The funding would allow the charity to run a non-contact boxing project in Chelmsford for ‘at risk’ 11-19 year olds, just like the one recently started at Thaxted Youth Club (click here for more info).

Starting with basic work with pads and punch bags to teach discipline, focus and respect, the course develops into a Boxing Tutor Qualification and includes training in CV-writing and interview skills. The course is run by qualified boxing coaches and experienced youth workers, who are positive role models for the young people.

“This funding would allow us to really make a difference in Chelmsford” said Afsheen Panjalizadeh, Sports & Activities Manager at Essex Boys & Girls Clubs. “When this project has been funded elsewhere in the county we’ve seen young people really change their attitude, to themselves and their own lives as well as to their community, in a really positive way.”

So, if you wish to support the great work the EBGC does for our region's kids, cast your vote before the closing date of November 1st 2013. You can vote in person at Lloyd's Bank's Chelmsford branch, by text message (text VOTE KMLD to 61119), or online.

Check out the EBGC Trumpet Community Page for more details of this fabulous charity or click here for the Thaxted Youth Club page.