27 May London Masons enter the ring with Boxing Futures charity
London Masons through the Masonic Charitable Foundation have helped fund the core work of Boxing Futures a national charity providing services from Bromley to Newham, Walthamstow to Camden and across the wider London area.
Boxing Futures was founded in 2015, with the goal of providing an alternative outlet for young people at risk of becoming involved in the youth justice system, or those who live in areas of extreme deprivation, leading to negative life outcomes. They use Boxercise (boxing training but not sparring or competitive bouts) as a way of addressing key societal challenges and improving the quality of life of disadvantaged or at risk individuals.
More than just a sport, Boxing Futures have given over 2,000 young people the chance to create partnerships by empowering them through the support of non-judgemental relationships and providing them with a sense of family, trust and excitement thereby providing the chance to be part of something special. This has created a positive impact on many young lives and reduced re-offending and anti-social behaviour.
Adam York, Chief Executive of Boxing Futures told us: “Boxing Futures are delighted to have received a grant from London Masons through the Masonic Charitable Foundation.
The young people Boxing Futures work with come from all walks of life, experiencing a range of barriers preventing them from moving positively into the future. The grant we have received will allow us to continue working alongside our young people to help positively address issues such as loneliness, isolation, and both physical and mental wellbeing.
Furthermore, we will be able to ensure time can be spent improving our programmes alongside the young people we serve”
London Masons Charity Steward Tony Shields commented, “London Masons are pleased to be able to assist in the amazing initiative with core funding of £4,821. They provide an alternative outlet to young people at risk of becoming involved in the youth justice system, or those who live in areas of extreme deprivation, leading to negative life outcomes. This is another example of Freemasons supporting the London community. This follows on from a £2.5 million donation from London Freemasons to London Fire Brigade. The funding will provide London Fire Brigade with two extended height aerial vehicles, response cars and ancillary aerial equipment.”
