Hospice sets firms challenge to help appeal

St Andrew’s Hospice has set a challenge to local businesses as part of its renovation capital appeal.

The Airdrie charity has launched a new fundraiser, entitled “You’re Hired!”, asking companies to set entrepreneurial tasks for staff, particularly graduates and apprentices.

Each team will be invited to pitch their money-making project to a judging team in the contest’s version of “the boardroom” in February, with the winner being crowned next spring – when the refurbished hospice building is due to open.

Overall winners will receive a day’s business consultancy with an industry leader, and further awards will go to the best small, medium and large company project plus an outstanding individual.

Some of the early projects in the pipeline include football events, dress-down days and a street fair stall.

Capital appeal director Karen McFadyen said: “This challenge provides an opportunity to get staff involved in a fun event and at the same time give something back to the community.

“We have a number of companies on board who are looking to create different events and demonstrate their business skills, which will also raise funds for our appeal.”

Hospice officials have so far raised £ 5million towards the ongoing £ 9m refurbishment of its Henderson Street premises, which will include creating 21 single and three shared rooms for patients, each with upgraded facilities, garden access and space for loved ones to stay overnight.

Donations to the appeal can be made by sending texting NINE30£5 to 70070.