Scoring big for Acorns

22nd May 2025

Spring has seen an outpouring of community spirit across the Midlands, with local football clubs Walsall FC, Solihull Moors, and Aston Villa championing our work.

Through a series of matchday takeovers, these clubs didn’t just deliver thrilling football action; they provided a powerful platform for Acorns to connect with over 50,000 passionate fans. The result? A staggering £10,000 raised – a sum that will make a very real difference, enabling us to provide the care, love and comfort families facing the unimaginable desperately need.

The secret ingredient to these successful takeovers? Our amazing army of Public Collection volunteers who, armed with a smile and a bucket, make these days a resounding success. And it wasn’t all hard work – plenty of fun was had along the way!

Public Collection volunteer experience

We caught up with some of our newest Public Collection volunteer recruits to hear about their experiences, and Katy Chesters, the Assistant Headteacher at St Thomas More Catholic School in Willenhall, perfectly captured the spirit of the Walsall FC takeover day for her students:

“This was our first opportunity volunteering for Acorns and what an experience it was!” Katy said. “Acorns has been selected as one the charities our Parish will support this year and when our Sixth Form spotted the chance to fundraise at a local Walsall FC game this seemed perfect.

Alex the Acorns and an Acorns Public Collection volunteer at a football ground.

Two Acorns volunteers cheering on players during a football match.

“It was a fantastic day from start to finish.  We were cared for and looked after by all the team of staff from Acorns, the stewards at the game; and the fans from both sides were amazing in their support and contributions.

“In all we found this a most humbling experience, knowing that our efforts have made, in some way, the lives of families of those coping with illness in our local community more bearable. 

“Without doubt St Thomas More Catholic School will be signing up for further events and doing all we can to support this wonderful charity.”

We’re so grateful to Katy’s team for giving up their time to help us to raise vital funds for our hospices.

Get involved in volunteering

At Acorns, we’re always on the lookout for new, enthusiastic volunteers to join our fun and impactful collections and Community Giving Events. From the roar of sporting events to the friendly atmosphere of community fairs, and the everyday bustle of supermarkets and garden centres, there’s a whole host of opportunities to get involved with across the Midlands.

No prior experience is necessary – just a smile! If you’d like to come join one of our fun events and help us change lives, please take a look at our upcoming opportunities. Your gift of time could be the next game-changer for Acorns!