Making a Splash for Building for the Future

The Wokingham Lions Club held its first official Swimathon last Wednesday at Wokingham Leisure Centre, bringing together local teams for a day of fundraising, activity and community spirit.

Among the participants was a mixed-ability team representing our charity, Building for the Future (BFTF), made up of young people with disabilities and their carers.

Together, they completed an impressive 41 laps in a relay-style effort, showing that with determination and perseverance, anything is possible.

One standout swimmer was little Oscar, whose family regularly visits Our House, BFTF’s specialist play therapy centre for children with disabilities.

Oscar raised £250 before even getting in the pool—and donations have already exceeded £300, with more still coming in.

“This was a great event with teams from across the community,” said Jasper Holmes, BFTF Plus lead, who swam alongside his daughter Kitty.

“We were swimming alongside teams from local charities and businesses and the atmosphere was really positive. The Lions did a great job of organising it and made everything easy. The BFTF team had a fantastic swim, especially Oscar who obviously really enjoys swimming and kept going without stopping!”

All funds raised will support Building for the Future’s programmes that help disabled children and young people feel engaged, safe, included and confident.

A huge thank you goes out to everyone who supported and sponsored the BFTF team.

If you'd like to donate and keep the momentum going, you can do so via:👉 https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/bftf-swimathon2025