Words by Abi Scaife
Philanthropist Sir Jack Petchey CBE, has sadly passed away, aged 98.
Sir Jack Petchey first became wealthy through property and timeshare, but soon turned his efforts to focus on philanthropy.
He set up the Jack Petchey Foundation in 1999 to help young people aged 11-25 in Essex and London, believing that every young person should be given the chance to succeed and achieve.
The Foundation continues today, not only helping to support young people across Essex and London, but celebrating their achievements. The charity set up and runs various peer recognition schemes to enhance the work of schools and youth organisations across London and Essex.
Even at 98, Sir Petchey loved to get involved with the Foundation and all of its workings, and remained passionate about its cause.
They continue to give out grants to schools and youth organisations throughout Essex and London, to help young people succeed at every turn.
According to the charity: “Through his entrepreneurial spirit, [Sir Petchey] became one of Britain’s most successful businessmen. This enabled him to achieve his ambition of giving young people the opportunities and confidence he lacked as a child.
“As he always told young people ‘If you think you can, you can’.”
Under Sir Petchey’s guidance, The Jack Petchey Foundation has invested over £170m in youth projects over the past 25 years and will continue to do so in his memory.
Sir Petchey is survived by his wife Lady Frances Petchey, his daughters Jackie, Susan and Amanda and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
The Fore. This charity is transforming lives and society by turbo-charging exceptional small charities and social enterprises. Support them here.
The Brother’s Trust. This charity is run by Tom Holland’s family, aiming to shine a light on charities where generous donations can be used to maximum effect. Find out more.
The Henry Smith Charity. This is a grant-giving charity that aims to use its resources to help people and communities in the UK. Learn more here.
This article aligns with the UN SDG Quality Education and Partnerships for the Goals.
