Hackney Quest launches bid to drum up £30,000 as youth charity celebrates 30th anniversary

A cherished Hackney youth charity is has hit 30 years of service, but the team certainly won’t be resting on their laurels.

Hackney Quest, which celebrated its birthday with a celebration at Hackney Town Hall on Thursday night, has kicked off a crowdfunding campaign to drum up £30,000 to help support the 300 young people the charity supports.

With government cuts and rising rent prices in Hackney their message is simple – they’ve been around for 30 years and want to be supporting the community for another 30.

In the current climate of youth violence in London, places like Hackney Quest are more important than ever to promote and support positive engagement of young people, build community ties and bring people together from all backgrounds.

With the support of more than 70 volunteers, the charity puts on activities for young people including mentoring, homework club, workshops for those transitioning from primary to secondary school and 16+ employability.

For families, the charity offers emotional and practical support to parents, carers and young people at risk of exclusion, attendance at appointments including those with schools, parenting groups and courses, and they also run community events covering topics from health and wellbeing to racism.

Colette Allen, Hackney Quest’s director said: “Hackney Quest is an amazing place that really does make a long-term impact on young people and families. I have had the pleasure of being involved for the past 18 years and have personally witnessed the journeys of thousands of young people. I know that all the positive engagement and support services we provide, along with the dedicated team of staff and volunteers, really do make a lasting and real difference.”

The celebration was attended by young people past and present from Hackney Quest, as well as Mayor of Hackney Phil Glanville.

Visit crowdfunder.co.uk/hackney-quest-s-30th-anniversary-funds-appeal to donate.