CHALLENGERS’ Farnham centre has re-opened after months of renovation works.
Having undergone renovations, both the play and youth centres were unveiled to invited guests on January 30.
To inaugurate the new buildings, Challengers celebrated with supporters and families that have used and are still using their services.
The evening brought an exciting and cheerful atmosphere to the play floor, as supporters and service users mingled and children tested and approved the various new play areas.
Among the guests was Farnham mayor David Attfield who, much to Challengers delight, had also been the mayor opening the building for the first time, ten years ago.
The London Marathon Charitable Trust and the Postcode Local Trust, a grant-giving charity funded entirely by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, were among the group of supporters whose contribution made this project possible.
A spokesman said Challengers is “truly grateful for this support and dedication”.
The buildings are home to three schemes; pre-school, the playscheme and the youth scheme. They are all used to full capacity and have seen many activities, smiles and laughter over the course of ten years.
With the buildings being some of the main facilities for Challengers schemes, a refurbishment was a long standing plan which in late 2018 finally came to fruition.
During the refurbishment, play and youth workers at the Farnham schemes worked tirelessly to keep the schemes running with as little disruption to families as possible.
The evening showcased their success in doing so and an excitement for the many hours of play that will be delivered in the new buildings.
Challengers is said to be looking forward to an action-packed 2019 at the Farnham centres.
The play and youth schemes run on Saturdays and during the holidays, while the pre-school is open Monday to Friday, engaging the children in sensory play as well as offering an extensive playground.
The unveiling of the two Farnham centres comes as Challengers marks its 40th birthday this year.
Established in 1979, Challengers aims to break down the barriers to play for disabled children and young people across Surrey, Hampshire, Berkshire and West Sussex by providing them with a range of play and leisure opportunities.
Challengers was founded by Colin Hassell and Dr Helen Foley, who was awarded an MBE in 2015, when they teamed up to offer free swimming classes for disabled children.
Starting life as Guildford Adventurers, services extended to offering youth schemes, before being rebranded as Disability Challengers in 2001.
In 2013, the name was altered once more to Challengers.
Now, 40 years later and despite having a new name, the charity continues under the same ethos that no one is ever turned away.
With lots planned for its 40th year, Challengers is looking to sustain its next 40 years and beyond.
Each year, more than 1,400 children, aged between two and 25, go along to Challengers’ projects.
Anybody wishing to find out more about Challengers or the Farnham schemes, should visit the website at disability-challengers.org or call 01483 230930.