A staggering 193,000 was raised for counselling service Childline at the White Hat Ball last Friday, January 25.
The annual fundraising event, organized by a committee of dedicated volunteers from the information security sector and now in its 14th year, was held at London’s Lancaster Hotel. The evening was hosted by TV presenter, writer and musical artist Nick Knowles and included speeches from Childline founder Dame Esther Rantzen and White Hat Ball committee members.
Guests enjoyed a champagne reception, three-course dinner followed by live music and dancing and various fundraising activities including a raffle, silent and live auctions.
Childline was founded in 1986 and is a free, private and confidential service for anyone under 19 in the UK, providing trained support for young people dealing with a wide range of issues. In 2006, Childline became part of the NSPCC.
“Each year the White Hat Ball raises a fantastic amount of money for Childline, a cause we are incredibly passionate about,” said chairman of this year’s White Hat Ball committee, Mark Logsdon. “Thanks to all of those involved in making it happen, our sponsors and those who attended, donated and gave so generously.”
“I’m extremely proud to be part of an industry which has made such a difference to so many children and young people over the past 14 years.”
Childline president, Dame Esther Rantzen DBE, added: “At Childline we’ve become more aware of the dangers of the online world and it’s wonderful to have the support of an industry which is determined to help keep the internet safe.
“The money the information security and risk industry have raised will help us be there for more young people, some of whom are in desperate need of our help.”