Teenager wants to give something back to youth zone that 'saved her life'

Alex Tolond, a founding member of The Hive, has suffered several issues with mental health since losing her father Terry to cancer at the age of 11.

She says by becoming a member of The Hive youth zone, it has saved her life and has helped her build confidence and resilience.

Due to The Hive, Alex has been inspired to go to university to pursue a career in social work but as a farewell gesture to the youth zone, she is hoping to raise £1,000 by taking part in her first 5K Gung-Ho! challenge in Chester.

Alex told the Globe: "I want to raise money for the Hive to say thank you.

"I’ve been involved with the Hive for nearly four years, and it has been a journey that I will never forget.

"Before getting involved with the Hive, I was isolated, I had little confidence, and I was scared of myself.

"My mental health was suffering a lot due to losing my dad and not talking about it.

"The Hive picked me up and supported me and the team has been there for me in more ways than you could ever imagine - without them, I dread to think about where I would be today.

“The Hive helped me when I couldn't help myself, they've shared my lowest lows and highest highs with me.

Alex meeting the Duchess of Sussex at The Hive

"I will never be able to thank the youth work team enough for what they have done but by challenging myself and raising funds for the Youth Zone I hope to support this amazing facility.

"Although I’m leaving the Hive this year to start my career, I’ll always keep it close to my heart and support it from a distance, until I go back and volunteer.”

So far Alex has raised £179 of her £1,000 target.

Chief executive at The Hive, Adam Mellor said: "We’re enormously proud of Alex, who has become part of the fabric of our Youth Zone.

"She has played an invaluable role in representing the thoughts and ideas of her fellow Hive members, as we work together to make The Hive the very best it can be for young people in Wirral.

"We’ve all been inspired by the bravery and determination Alex has shown in overcoming the challenges she’s faced and, while we’re very sorry to see her go, we’re really excited about what the future holds for her.

“We’re now hoping that others will follow Alex’s example and take on a personal challenge to help raise much-needed funds for The Hive.

"We’re putting out an open invite to members of the Wirral community who want to show their support, to sign up for a challenge event of their choice in aid of The Hive.

"It’s the first time we’ve done this and we’re really looking forward to welcoming a host of new supporters through the initiative.”

To sponsor Alex visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/alexandratolond