Every summer for the last three, I have been pounding the kerbs for local charities. This time I am walking for three great causes, which are close to my heart. And all in memory of Phil Michael Aizlewood, a larger than life character, well known in Manchester. 🤩

I am walking to raise funds for:

1. The pma grant at 53two is named after Phil Michael Aizlewood. Phil is described by those who knew him as "a remarkable person and a phenomenal actor whose passing sent shockwaves through his community."

A group of Phil's friends and colleagues donate a small amount annually to a fund that can be split over several causes, overseen by a steering committee, who will compile a shortlist of nominations from donors. And this will have a focus on the arts and mental health. I want to help top up this fund to give Phil a lasting legacy and support people in his name. 🎖

You can read about Phil and the pma grant below.

https://ilovemanchester.com/phil-michael-aizlewood-fundraiser-53two

2. 500 Acts of Kindness help people and places navigate the cost of living crisis and so much more. They are really about letting people know they are 'seen.' 👏 They have helped students I have taught. One student was sofa surfing because of an unreasonable and cold landlord. And because of their kindness, they have made it to university and work. 👍

https://ilovemanchester.com/julie-hesmondhalgh-and-chris-malvern-on-how-500-acts-of-kindness-is-lifting-people-up-1-at-a-time

3. 53two is an arts space, bar, meeting place, and community hub. They do so much for people in Manchester and inclusivity is at the heart of everything they take on. They need to make some adjustments to their building and continue to fund exciting projects, such as offering work placements to local young people. 🥰

They offer my students somewhere to work, rest and play. Their brilliant staff have supported them as creatives, with their assignments. They have also given them access to theatre with free and reduced rate tickets. The work they do here is amazing with a focus on the community.

https://www.53two.com/about

Pic below:

Simon Naylor (Creative Director at 53two) and the late, great Phil Michael Aizlewood

Let's give Phil a legacy that he deserves.

**What am I doing?**

I am walking for 553 brisk minutes x 2 between 5th - 11th May, so a total of 1106 brisk minutes in 7 days. 🚶‍♂️

(500 Acts of Kindness, 53two, see what I did there 😂)

The money will be split between these three causes, and if you can add gift aid, they will get even more money. If you cannot donate, please don't worry. Sharing this page can make a huge difference. 🙏

Thanks as ever for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page. I never take your kindness for granted. Trainers and plasters are at the ready. 😃

Please share this page and pass onto your family and friends. 💕

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.