In Leicester we heard about a plan from our local hospice, LOROS, to run a second public art trail across the city throughout the summer of 2025. As part of this, LOROS put a shout out for community groups and schools who wanted to get involved. We loved the idea and wanted to support another charity, especially one as well loved as LOROS. We all know people who are connected with or who have stayed there and they offer a range of services, such as community nursing, day therapy, counselling and high quality palliative care.
The launch
We registered our interest and were invited to a launch event, where they told us about the learning program, timelines and the pledge and we signed up! As part of the learning programme, supporters are provided with their own elephant sculpture that they can decorate and then have as part of the city-wide art trail.
The pledge was to raise £1000, which covers the cost of the sculpture and raises vital funds for the Hospice. People drawing on our support across the Leicestershire service have run different fund raising events including a grand national sweepstake, a samosa event (that tied in with Ramadan) and a stall at a winter wonderland event. We have had to connect with lots of other people to raise the money and everyone has contributed. You can see our fundraising page here.
Our elephant arrives
Our elephant arrived in January and we had to decide how to decorate it. We wanted it to reflect MacIntyre’s DNA and what the DNA looks and feels to them. We took photos of our DNA in action – photos representing how we connect, learn and have fun. Everyone had the opportunity to create a pattern on the letters DNA to decorate the elephant and our “DNA-Lephant” was born!
The elephant’s toenails are painted gold to represent Leicester’s Golden Mile and the head-dress represents Leicester’s history and the different cultures and people who live in our amazingly diverse city.
Joining the "Tusk Force"
LOROS have also asked for a “Tusk Force”, an army of helpers to volunteer along the trail. This team will help to check the elephants and make sure that they are kept looking lovely, hand out maps and volunteer in the merchandise shop. Some of the people who draw on support and our staff are planning to be a part of The Tusk Force over the summer.
Stomp round Leicester
The art trail opens on 14 July and we have a celebration planned for us all to meet and walk the trail and admire the elephants. Come on down and take a look as we Stomp Round Leicester.
