Charity Commission Report: Holly’s Active Stars 2024-2025
1. Charity's Purposes and Objectives
Holly’s Active Stars was founded in 2023 in memory of Holly Fairchild, a passionate young footballer who passed away unexpectedly at age 16. The charity was established to honor her legacy by promoting access to physical activity for all, especially those facing barriers due to financial hardship, age, disability, or other disadvantages.
Charitable Object: ‘The advancement of amateur sport and the promotion of participation in healthy recreation by providing free sportswear and sports equipment, for the benefit of people in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, in particular but not exclusively those in need by reason of youth, age, disability and financial hardship.'
Vision: That everyone in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough has access to the sportswear or equipment they need to be physically active.
Mission: To collect and redistribute new and used sportswear and equipment to enable participation in physical activity across the region.
Values: Caring, Respectful, Collaborative and Community focused.
2. Activities and Achievements (April 2024 – March 2025)
Key Activities:
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4 permanent donation points and several temporary ones were established across Cambridgeshire
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Launched a click-and-collect model in Cambridge City
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Held two successful pop-up shop events to distribute kit in Cambridge City
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Developed partnerships with local organisations like Cambridge United Foundation, libraries, Ely NCS, targeted support and youth workers
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Raised over £16,000 through crowdfunding, sponsored events, and community activities
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£1500 grants awarded via the Local Authority (Enabler and Community Reach Fund)
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Notable fundraising events included a 93-mile sponsored walk, Cambridge Half Marathon, Venice Marathon, Chariots of Fire and a cold water plunge
3. Impact and Outcomes
Quantitative Impact:
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Hundreds of items of sportswear and equipment were redistributed.
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Reduction in textile waste and environmental footprint
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Cost savings for families and individuals in need
Qualitative Feedback:
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“Thanks, found a complete outfit Yippee.”
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“Thank you for the football kit!”
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“My son will love it.”
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“Thank you so much and keep up the amazing work.”
Strategic Milestones Met:
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Achieved all planned collection and distribution milestones across Haddenham, Cottenham, and Cambridge City
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Developed an impact tool to measure environmental outcomes and cost savings to families that benefit.
4. Public Benefit
Holly’s Active Stars provides significant public benefit by enabling access to physical activity for individuals who might otherwise be excluded due to financial or social barriers. By redistributing donated sportswear and equipment, the charity supports physical and mental health, promotes social inclusion, and reduces environmental waste. The charity’s work aligns with national health strategies and addresses local needs in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, amongst people of all ages. Its activities contribute to reducing health inequalities, supporting community cohesion, and encouraging sustainable practices.
5. Next Steps
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Expand the collection and distribution model to all districts in Cambridgeshire
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Recruit more ad hoc volunteers
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Seek additional kit donations from businesses
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Continue to evaluate and refine the charity’s operational model
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