Cerri McDonald, Managing Director at Aberdeen marketing agency Prospect 13, has joined the Board of Trustees of Aberdeen children’s charity Lifestars to support the development of its fundraising events and activities.
Cerri, who established Prospect 13 in 2018 to deliver outsourced marketing support to help small to medium businesses reach their creative marketing potential, will help provide expert guidance in marketing and communications to elevate Lifestars’ branding, marketing and public relations strategy.
Lifestars, founded in 2018 by former Dyce Academy pupil Neve McPherson, works to ensure children and young people with additional support needs have access to a range of activities to develop key life and social skills.
By organising sports and sensory sessions, to funding school trips and running career fairs, the charity gives young people the chance to take part in a varied programme of extra-curricular activities to foster qualities such as leadership, teamwork, trust and communication. So far, schools benefiting include Dyce Academy, Bridge of Don Academy, Mintlaw Academy, Mile End Primary, Hanover St Primary and Kaimhill Primary.
Cerri commented, “It’s essential to dedicate time and energy to our young people and I’m proud to take an active role in helping to make a difference in the lives of children across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.
“I have a huge passion for education, and I grab every opportunity to encourage personal growth and inspire the next generation and I look forward to supporting Lifestars to continue championing the amazing young people in our community.”
The new Lifestars Board of Trustees: (back row, l-r) Neil McKinnon and Willie McPherson and (front row, l-r) Lynette McPherson, Neve McPherson, Cerri McDonald, Harvey Smith and Barry Duncan
Lifestars, which is headed up by its founder Neve with the support of her dad Willie McPherson, is also announcing the appointment of five further members of its newly formed Board of Trustees, who will support Lifestars’ fundraising campaigns, event planning and governance as the charity marks its sixth anniversary this year.
The new Board members will oversee the charity’s long-term strategy, as well as contributing to, and supporting the management of the charity, ensuring it continues its good work to improve the lives of children and young people across the North-east.
Neil McKinnon, Global Resources Manager at Claxton Engineering Services Ltd, joins as a Trustee, having been a huge supporter of Lifestars over the last few years. Neil’s expertise, connections and innovative ideas will help shape the future of the charity.
Barry Duncan, Managing Director & Vice President, Finance at CNR International also joins the Board, having been a long-term supporter of Lifestars since its inception.
Harvey Smith, founder and MD of HS Consultancy Services, comes on board bringing with him a vast network and unparalleled expertise to bolster the charity’s fundraising efforts.
Sunny Harper, Learning & Development Advisor at Peterson Energy Logistics and Lynette McPherson, Director of Sales for Salmac Limited, also join the board and will focus on supporting Neve with engagement with local schools.
Neve, who picked up the ‘Local Hero of the Year’ Award at the cHeRies Awards in 2023, added, “We are proud to bring together this incredible group of individuals who are passionate about helping Lifestars flourish and we eagerly anticipate the remarkable contributions their knowledge and expertise will bring.”
For more information, visit www.lifestarsscio.com