Befriend a Child is proudly reflecting on a remarkable year of celebration, community spirit and generosity as the charity marks its 50th anniversary.
Since 1975, the organisation has been dedicated to supporting children and young people across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire who are growing up in difficult life circumstances. Through its befriending, mentoring, family support and youth club programmes, Befriend a Child continues to ensure that young people have the support, encouragement and positive role models they need to build confidence and thrive.
The charity kicked off its Golden Anniversary celebrations at the start of 2025 with a programme of special events, challenges and fundraising activities that brought together volunteers, supporters and funders. Among the highlights of the year was their celebrated Barbie Boozy Brunch held in March, which raised over £50,000 and set an exciting tone for the months ahead.
The charity was honoured with a Civic Reception at the Aberdeen Town House in their birthday month. The event, hosted by the Lord Provost, united long-standing supporters, partners and volunteers and provided an opportunity to reflect on the organisation’s lasting impact over five decades. Throughout the year, Befriend a Child reconnected with past volunteers and former befriendees, inviting them to share their stories and celebrate the meaningful relationships that have positively impacted their lives. Over the last 50 years, Befriend a Child has made a positive difference to thousands of children across our local communities.
A standout moment of the anniversary year was the charity’s Golden Anniversary Ball, held in May, which provided a truly memorable evening of celebration, reflection and gratitude. The ball brought together supporters old and new to mark 50 years of impact, while raising vital funds to support the charity’s future work with children and young people.
Another particularly special occasion was the Befriend a Child 50th Birthday Summer Party that brought together children, young people and their volunteers. The party offered an opportunity for fun, connection and appreciation, recognising the commitment of volunteers and creating joyful memories for the young people involved during the summer holidays.
Throughout this special anniversary year, Befriend a Child has been overwhelmed by the generosity and dedication shown by individuals, families, schools, community groups and businesses across the region. Their contributions, whether through attending an event, taking on a fundraising challenge, sponsoring activities or volunteering their time, have helped ensure the charity can continue delivering vital support to the children and young people who need it most.
Reflecting on the milestone, Sarah Misra, CEO at Befriend a Child shared heartfelt thanks: “As we celebrate 50 years of Befriend a Child, I am filled with enormous pride and gratitude. This milestone has given us the chance to look back at the thousands of children and families whose lives have been touched by our work and to recognise the incredible volunteers and supporters who make everything we do possible. To every individual, business, funder and partner who has supported us during this very special year, thank you. As we look ahead to the next 50 years, we are excited for what the future holds and remain dedicated to expanding our services and reaching even more young people across our communities.”
As the anniversary year comes to a close, Befriend a Child remains deeply committed to its mission and is looking to the future with optimism. With continued support, the charity will carry forward its proud legacy and ensure that even more local children and young people who lack a positive adult role model have access to the guidance, encouragement and friendship they deserve.
If you would like to know more about Befriend a Child, or learn how you can support them in 2026, please visit their website here - https://www.befriendachild.org.uk/