A FUND has been launched in memory of a father and son who were tragically killed in a hit-and-run earlier this year – with over £53,000 already raised, and two further fundraising events planned this month.
Jersey Community Foundation will manage the ‘Lowe’s Legacy Fund’ in memory Dean Lowe (48) and his 11-year-old son, Charlie, who both died in August after being hit by a vehicle.
A 28-year-old man – who has not been named – was arrested in St. Helier on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, and failing to stop and report the collision. He was later released on bail to allow for further investigations to be carried out.
A fundraising page was set up in memory of the father and son, with the aim of “having a positive impact in the island for performing arts” – one of Dean and Charlie’s “passions in life”.
The page raised over £50,000, and inspired the launch of the Lowe’s Legacy Fund which will be managed by JCF, a local, grant-giving charity focused on delivering effective philanthropy based on local need.They have experience working with community fundraising initiatives, earlier this year setting up a fund for youth mental health in memory of Kezia Mason.
Although the official criteria for the fund has not yet been established, the Lowe’s Legacy Fund will promote accessibility to the arts and music, support disadvantaged communities in the island and aid development of those with learning disabilities – subjects close to Dean and Charlie’s hearts.
Ashleigh, Dean’s fiancé and Charlie’s mum, said: “We have been overwhelmed by the public support shown for Dean and Charlie.
“During a time of profound grief and shock, it has been such a comfort and a point of pride to see how loved my son and his father were within our community.”
The first fundraising event for the The Lowe’s Legacy Fund is set to be held this weekend.
The Lowe’s Legacy Gig is a “music memorial fundraiser” which hopes to “keep the memory of Dean and Charlie alive” through a night of live music performances.
Held at Chambers on Saturday night, organisers have promised “some brilliant live music acts, a Beatles tribute band, ‘Mad-Chester’ mash up, plus a raffle with some great prizes, and lots and lots of dancing and singing”.
Tickets for the event sold out almost immediately, and all money raised will go to the The Lowe’s Legacy Fund.
Anna Terry, chief executive of Jersey Community Foundation, said: “We are honoured to take on the management of the Lowe’s Legacy Fund.
“We will work to ensure the fund encapsulates the strong spirit of both Dean and Charlie.
“Our local needs assessment, sector specialists and experienced board members all contribute to ensure our grant giving process is robust, fair and effective.
“We hope that the good work done through the Lowe’s Legacy Fund will go some way to help our community heal.”
