Sleeping out for charity
721. Andy Preston
A Middlesbrough philanthropist has founded three charities which boost local community initiatives and help support vulnerable people.
Andy Preston, from Middlesbrough, had a successful career in the City before using his experience and contacts to found three highly impactful charities. In 2011 Andy created the Middlesbrough and Teesside Philanthropic Foundation which has raised over £2.1million to fund community projects across Teesside.
His connections with business heads through the Philanthropic Foundation gave rise to his second charitable venture in 2013. CEO Sleepout is a national charity which mobilises senior executives to help fight homelessness and poverty by joining organised Sleepout events in iconic venues such as Wembley Stadium and Lord’s Cricket Ground. With over £1million raised through over 1000 participants, the charity has particularly close ties with Depaul UK and the Cardinal Hume Centre, supporting their work with vulnerable young people.
Andy’s recent venture is a not-for-profit restaurant in Middlesbrough. ‘The Fork in the Road’ is run by experienced professionals who mentor recovering addicts, ex-offenders, veterans and long-term unemployed to give them skills in order to get their lives back on track. Through these charities Andy has improved the lives of thousands of individuals across the country.
The next CEO Sleepout will take place in Durham Cathedral on the 24th April.
In a personal letter to Andy, Prime Minister Theresa May said:
“The money you are raising through your ‘CEO Sleepout’ initiative is changing lives, enabling the charities you support to do important work, particularly with vulnerable young people.”
Andy said:
“Volunteers from business and across the community can transform lives and hugely improve society. Well done to the Points Of Light Award scheme for championing the huge benefits of volunteering and community action.”