The JustGiving Awards 2018: Make your vote count

There's still time to cast your vote in the annual celebration of incredible fundraisers and campaigners

Lisa Wells and her daughters Ava-Lily and Saffia

There’s just over a month to go until the ninth annual JustGiving Awards, and there’s still time to vote for your favourite.

The JustGiving Awards will be held on Tuesday 20 November, at The Brewery, London. They celebrate some of the many amazing individuals, charities and teams who have used JustGiving in the last 12 months to change lives and make a positive contribution to a good cause.

This year JustGiving received over 34,000 nominations for the eight categories – a record amount. From these, there are 24 finalists. The Crowdfunder of the Year category is one of the most hotly contested. After much deliberation, the shortlist was whittled down to Alex Jundi, Kelly Owen and Lisa Wells.

Alex Jundi set up his Crowdfunder page after his best friend Gerard had an accident last July which left him with paralysis of his legs, wrists and hands. “The motivation for what I’m doing is the love and loyalty I have towards Gerard,” says Alex. “The money it raises goes towards helping him to live the most independent life that he possibly can. Some of the equipment includes adapted wheelchairs and sports equipment, as well as a standing frame, and an FES bike, which are key for helping with his blood circulation.”

Although running the page requires huge organisation and dedication, to Alex its not a burden, he says “I do it all out of love for Gerard”.

Fellow finalist Kelly Owen’s Crowdfunder is inspired by her 12-year-old daughter Abigail, who passed away in 2013. She found great comfort from an old fable which was written to help children come to terms with bereavement. She decided to adapt and modernise the story herself.

Kelly says “when I decided to self-publish my children's book, The Dragonfly Story, Crowdfunding was a way I could raise some money to help cover the costs of production and using Justgiving was pivotal to this. I was amazed to see many generous donations from friends and family, and from people who have supported me both here in the UK and overseas.

“To be honest, I wasn't expecting to raise much. Crowdfunding for the book helped me to realise my simple idea that I hope will bring lasting comfort to families grieving a loved one. “

The final finalist Lisa Wells was diagnosed with Stage 4 terminal bowel and liver cancer just after her second daughter was born. Knowing she wouldn’t get to see her girls do the things most mothers would - such as picking out their wedding dresses, or getting the keys to their first home - she set up her Crowdfunding page with the help of #LisasArmy to leave them a lasting legacy. So far Lisa has raised more than £15,000.

To learn more about all the finalists, or to vote for your winner, please visit the JustGiving Awards page. Voting closes on Sunday 14 October 2018.