A summer picnic in Chelmsford has raised £625 for Dementia Adventure, a national charity dedicated to helping people living with dementia enjoy the outdoors. The event, held in a member's garden, brought together 30 guests from Chelmsford County Tangent and Chelmsford Ladies Circle, all united by a shared goal of supporting those affected by dementia.
Big Green Picnic Campaign Unites Community
Dementia Adventure, based in Chelmsford, launched the Big Green Picnic campaign last year to encourage people impacted by dementia to spend time in nature with friends and family. The charity believes that with proper support, individuals with dementia can experience joy, adventure, and meaningful connections outdoors.
Paula Poston, who lost her father Roy Lowry to dementia earlier this year, chose Dementia Adventure as her charity of the year in her role as chair of Chelmsford County Tangent. Her decision came from a personal place, as she wished she had known about the charity's services sooner to enjoy more quality time with her dad.
Picnic Details and Fundraising Success
The picnic took place on a mid-summer evening beside a stream, under willow trees in a member's garden. Guests enjoyed a shared spread of pasta salads, coronation chicken, sausage rolls, quiche, bread, and fruit, accompanied by wine, conversation, and lawn games. The relaxed atmosphere encouraged generosity, with funds raised through a raffle and entry donations.
Paula expressed her delight: "I was so pleased with how the picnic went. It was such a relaxed atmosphere, and all of the ladies really seemed to enjoy themselves and get into the spirit of the event." She added, "I was also blown away by how generous everyone was and was thrilled to have raised such a good amount for Dementia Adventure."
Personal Motivation and Charity Impact
Reflecting on her father's journey, Paula noted, "I wish I had known about Dementia Adventure earlier, so we could have had more quality time enjoying days out with dad, with the additional help they provide. I now realise, as a carer, that any support is so important."
Rosie Wren, head of fundraising and engagement at Dementia Adventure, attended the event and praised Paula's efforts: "We are so thrilled that Paula chose Dementia Adventure as her charity of the year, and are so thankful that she took part in our Big Green Picnic campaign. I was delighted to attend and enjoyed a lovely mid-summer evening with great company and great food."
How to Get Involved
The Big Green Picnic campaign is designed to be flexible, allowing hosts to tailor events to their preferences. Rosie added, "This campaign is so flexible and allows people to really make the events their own, which Paula definitely did."
Those inspired to host their own picnic can download a toolkit from the charity's website at dementiaadventure.org, which provides resources and guidance for organising similar fundraising events.
