frequently asked questions

The Sarah Jackson Community Wish was established in 2024, after Sarah’s family were repeatedly asked by friends, family and supporters how they could donate money or raise funds in her memory following her passing.

From those conversations, the idea grew into something truly meaningful — a way to honour Sarah’s legacy by raising funds and giving directly back to the Otley community she loved.

Since then, our dedicated committee, supporters and fundraisers have worked together to organise events, raise money and support a wide range of local initiatives, individuals and organisations. What began as a way for people to channel their kindness and generosity has become an ongoing community effort focused on spreading positivity and making a real difference.

Get Involved

We are always incredibly grateful to those who choose to fundraise in Sarah’s name. Whether you’re planning something big and adventurous — like a bike ride, marathon, swim or trek — or something fun and creative such as a themed workplace day, community event, bake sale or personal challenge, your support helps us continue giving back.

If you’re thinking about organising a fundraiser, we would love to hear from you. Get in touch and we can provide guidance, ideas and resources to help you along the way.

You can also follow our blog and social media to see the journey of our fundraisers and discover how your generosity is helping people across the community.

The Sarah Jackson Community Wish uses funds raised through donations and fundraising activities to give back directly to the Otley community. We support individuals, families, local groups and organisations through a range of initiatives designed to make a meaningful difference.

This support may include financial assistance for someone going through a difficult time, funding for community projects or organisations, or thoughtful gifts that recognise individuals who have gone above and beyond for others.

Community involvement is at the heart of what we do. You can nominate a deserving individual (please note, self-nominations are not accepted), or local groups and organisations can apply directly for funding. All applications and nominations are carefully reviewed by our committee during their monthly meetings.

Funding Guidelines

• Beneficiaries must live in, or directly support, the local Otley community and surrounding areas.
• Applications for individual support must be submitted by a third party; prospective beneficiaries cannot nominate or apply for themselves.
• Beneficiaries may be individuals, community groups, teams or organisations. Any organisation applying must be non-profit or community-focused.
• All applications and nominations are reviewed by the Sarah Jackson Community Wish committee, and final funding decisions rest with the Board of Trustees. All decisions are final.
• Funding is provided as a one-off award and is non-recurring. However, community groups may apply for funding to establish projects, clubs or activities that provide ongoing benefit to the community.
• Approved funding will be paid directly into a specified and verified bank account. Evidence may be required to confirm that funds have been used for their intended purpose.
• Where appropriate, and with the beneficiary’s consent, updates on funded projects or support provided may be shared on The Sarah Jackson Community Wish blog or social media channels.

Fundraisers will be asked to set up their own Just Giving page. Select the link here 'No, I'm raising money for my own causes' and continue through to set up your Just Giving Page. Once the event has been completed the funds will then be transferred directly to the Sarah Jackson Community Wish account. 

Alternatively you can download a sponsorship form and collect sponsors in person. There is a downloadable Sponsorship Form in the Fundraising Resources section below. 

• Fundraising poster
• Fundraising 'Thank You' poster
• Sponsorship form
   

Once the funds you’ve raised are added to The Sarah Jackson Community Wish, our trustees will meet to review all nominations and applications and decide which deserving recipient(s) will benefit from your generosity. We’ll share the outcome on our blog, so you can see the real difference your hard work has made in the community, keeping Sarah’s memory alive through acts of kindness.

All committee members support the work of the Sarah Jackson Community Wish across a range of activities, helping with events, fundraising, and community projects.

Chairman – Tom Armitage 

Vice Chairman – Andrew Jackson

Accounts – Kylie Armitage 

Accounts – Leanne Johnson

Events & Fundraising – Laurell Malpass 

Events & Fundraising – Gillian Cluderay 

Events & Fundraising – Sarina Corney 

Events, Fundraising & Policy – Janice Nicholson

Social Media & Website – Nicola Horner & Jane Beadnell 

Social Media & Events – Niamh Hill