Latest news with #MakingaDifference
Scotsman
21-05-2025
- Sport
- Scotsman
Panmure RFC's unsung hero wins £5,000 to support grassroots rugby
Rob Prudom of Panmure RFC Rob Prudom named Scottish winner of the and Telegraph Media Group's Making a Difference campaign Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Panmure RFC's Rob Prudom has been named the Scottish winner of the and Telegraph Media Group's Making a Difference campaign, which celebrates the unsung heroes of community rugby. The competition invited clubs to nominate individuals whose selfless dedication and commitment have made a real difference to their clubs, with the chance to win £5,000 for their club. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Prudom, a proud Yorkshireman who moved to Dundee 30 years ago, was one of just three winners selected from over 800 nominees across Britain. Since joining Panmure RFC in 2003, he has played a crucial role as a long-time player, captain, fixtures secretary and treasurer. His dedication and leadership have been instrumental in keeping the club thriving. Club members praised Prudom's contributions in their nominations, saying: 'He's the glue that has kept The Panmure Panthers together, even through Covid. His commitment to the club and grassroots rugby is unmatched.' Speaking about the recognition Prudom said, 'For me, it's about giving back to a sport that has been a lifelong passion. We want kids to come together, play rugby, and enjoy themselves in a supportive environment. The fact that so many of them are playing regularly in a small community like ours is something we're incredibly proud of.' The £5,000 prize will support the club's school programme, fund an additional coaching position, and hire minibuses to transport school teams to away fixtures. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Paul Rogers, VP of Marketing at and judge of the Making a Difference campaign said 'For us, Rob really embodies everything that grassroots rugby is all about. His dedication to coaching, mentoring and growing the game beyond the community is truly inspiring and shows the impact that Panmure RFC is having.'
Business Upturn
16-05-2025
- Business
- Business Upturn
WITHERITE LAW GROUP AWARDED OVER $127,000 TO DUNBAR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS THROUGH 2025 ‘MAKING A DIFFERENCE' SCHOLARSHIP
By GlobeNewswire Published on May 16, 2025, 23:16 IST FORT WORTH, TX, May 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Witherite Law Group and 1-800-TruckWreck awarded $127,500 to 51 graduating seniors from Fort Worth's Dunbar High School this morning through its annual 'Making a Difference' Scholarship. Now in its 11th year, the scholarship program continues to expand its impact, with every Dunbar student who applied this year receiving a scholarship. The $2,500 awards are renewable annually if students maintain a 2.5 GPA and enroll in at least 12 credit hours. The event began with a musical prelude performed by the Dunbar High School band, followed by a welcome from Principal Justin Edwards. During his remarks, Edwards acknowledged the longstanding commitment of Witherite Law Group and Amy Witherite's deep involvement in the Dunbar community, stating, 'Amy Witherite not only talks the talk, she walks the walk—and she's been there with us every step of the way.' The partnership with Dunbar High School started in 2014, and since then, Witherite Law Group and 1-800-TruckWreck have awarded 404 scholarships and renewed 398 scholarships total—an investment of approximately $1,990,000 across all schools supported by the firm—helping propel graduates into careers in nursing, engineering, aviation, and more. This year's recipients represent a diverse range of aspirations, from electrical engineering to health care. The Making a Difference Scholarship recipients for 2025 include: S'nia Harmon, Brianna Weathersby, Za'ryah Blaylock, Tichina Steadman, Ja'Naria Justice, Zharich Leon Esparza, Graciela De Leon, Angelina Maldonado, Andre Edwards, Josiane Twizere, Makaila Smith, Umutoni Esperance, Eliza Amosi, Cameran Wiley, Dinah Uwiringimana, Jocelin Williams, Raymond Whitney, Alton Warren, Kalani Lawson, Luis Beltran, Kamel Lee, Mayra Perez, Xander Thomas, Grace Jones, Maali Williams-Surles, Kingston Clark, Chloe Ware, Angel Aguilar, Jaiden Wilson, Nickolas Stein, Quinnshon Wilson, Aaleiyah Sherman, Kevin Garcia, Kimberly Estrada, Braedyn Snow, Jaida Williams, Tiarra Dee, Jayla Rodriguez, Dayanara Baeza, Devani Vasquez, Jaslynn Sanders, Ja'leel Johnson, Jose Corpus, Marielle Maldonado, Krishawn Evans, Logan Caise, Monserrat Santillan, Amber Sanchez, Jeslyn Altamirano, Dayin Watson, Ntama Niyibitanga. In addition to awarding scholarships, Witherite Law Group sponsors numerous Dunbar initiatives such as Dads of Dunbar Mentoring Program, Senior Decision Day, Muffins with Moms, the Athletic Banquet, Teacher Appreciation, and the Top 10 Luncheon. Their presence and support have become a staple in the school's culture and student development. As a special moment during the event, the Fort Worth Police Department honored Amy Witherite with the Unsung Hero Award for her unwavering commitment to education and community service. 'Most people cannot afford college outright, so scholarships can be a lifeline for students,' said Witherite. 'We are proud to support these remarkable students as they take the next step toward their futures.' Attachments Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with GlobeNewswire. Business Upturn takes no editorial responsibility for the same. GlobeNewswire provides press release distribution services globally, with substantial operations in North America and Europe.
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
WITHERITE LAW GROUP AWARDED OVER $127,000 TO DUNBAR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS THROUGH 2025 ‘MAKING A DIFFERENCE' SCHOLARSHIP
2025 'Making a Difference' Scholarship Recipients Fort Worth Police Department honored Amy Witherite FORT WORTH, TX, May 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Witherite Law Group and 1-800-TruckWreck awarded $127,500 to 51 graduating seniors from Fort Worth's Dunbar High School this morning through its annual 'Making a Difference' Scholarship. Now in its 11th year, the scholarship program continues to expand its impact, with every Dunbar student who applied this year receiving a scholarship. The $2,500 awards are renewable annually if students maintain a 2.5 GPA and enroll in at least 12 credit hours. The event began with a musical prelude performed by the Dunbar High School band, followed by a welcome from Principal Justin Edwards. During his remarks, Edwards acknowledged the longstanding commitment of Witherite Law Group and Amy Witherite's deep involvement in the Dunbar community, stating, 'Amy Witherite not only talks the talk, she walks the walk—and she's been there with us every step of the way.' The partnership with Dunbar High School started in 2014, and since then, Witherite Law Group and 1-800-TruckWreck have awarded 404 scholarships and renewed 398 scholarships total—an investment of approximately $1,990,000 across all schools supported by the firm—helping propel graduates into careers in nursing, engineering, aviation, and more. This year's recipients represent a diverse range of aspirations, from electrical engineering to health care. The Making a Difference Scholarship recipients for 2025 include: S'nia Harmon, Brianna Weathersby, Za'ryah Blaylock, Tichina Steadman, Ja'Naria Justice, Zharich Leon Esparza, Graciela De Leon, Angelina Maldonado, Andre Edwards, Josiane Twizere, Makaila Smith, Umutoni Esperance, Eliza Amosi, Cameran Wiley, Dinah Uwiringimana, Jocelin Williams, Raymond Whitney, Alton Warren, Kalani Lawson, Luis Beltran, Kamel Lee, Mayra Perez, Xander Thomas, Grace Jones, Maali Williams-Surles, Kingston Clark, Chloe Ware, Angel Aguilar, Jaiden Wilson, Nickolas Stein, Quinnshon Wilson, Aaleiyah Sherman, Kevin Garcia, Kimberly Estrada, Braedyn Snow, Jaida Williams, Tiarra Dee, Jayla Rodriguez, Dayanara Baeza, Devani Vasquez, Jaslynn Sanders, Ja'leel Johnson, Jose Corpus, Marielle Maldonado, Krishawn Evans, Logan Caise, Monserrat Santillan, Amber Sanchez, Jeslyn Altamirano, Dayin Watson, Ntama Niyibitanga. In addition to awarding scholarships, Witherite Law Group sponsors numerous Dunbar initiatives such as Dads of Dunbar Mentoring Program, Senior Decision Day, Muffins with Moms, the Athletic Banquet, Teacher Appreciation, and the Top 10 Luncheon. Their presence and support have become a staple in the school's culture and student development. As a special moment during the event, the Fort Worth Police Department honored Amy Witherite with the Unsung Hero Award for her unwavering commitment to education and community service. "Most people cannot afford college outright, so scholarships can be a lifeline for students," said Witherite. 'We are proud to support these remarkable students as they take the next step toward their futures.' Attachments 2025 'Making a Difference' Scholarship Recipients Fort Worth Police Department honored Amy Witherite CONTACT: Kayla Tucker Adams KTA Media Group 2144039852 info@ in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Telegraph
30-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Telegraph
Nigel Owens visits Wrexham Rugby Club to present £5,000 grassroots donation
Volunteers are the lifeblood of any grassroots club and wanted to reward the very best of them with its Making a Difference campaign, which was launched last year with Telegraph Media Group. The price comparison website, which is also the back-of-shirt sponsor for the Welsh Rugby Union, wanted to recognise the selfless dedication and commitment of those who make a real difference. Clubs across Britain were asked to nominate their own unsung hero who goes over and above the call of duty, with a view to winning £5,000 for their club. There were more than 800 entries across England, Wales and Scotland, each one with an incredible story to tell. The judges had an incredibly difficult time making a decision, but ultimately there could be only three winners, and the Welsh choice was David Dixon from Wrexham RFC. Owens travelled to North Wales to reward a special volunteer who has made an extraordinary difference to their local club Credit : Gareth Iwan Jones David received a visit from legendary referee Nigel Owens to be given his prize on behalf of the club. While Wrexham's football club hit the spotlight in recent years when Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McIlhenney bought it, the rugby club is quietly building a thriving community asset and looking to raise its profile. And in the club's centenary year, David's accolade could not have come at a better time. David, 45, first moved to Wrexham in 2007 but it was only when his twins – a boy and a girl – started playing mini rugby six years ago that he became involved with the club. Nurturing the grassroots game and developing the junior section is hugely important to Dixon Credit : Gareth Iwan Jones Rugby had always been part of David's life, and as a parent he was keen to give something back to a sport from which he had derived real pleasure over the years. 'I enjoyed playing the sport for so long – as a hooker mainly, and I wanted to ensure the next generation could have what the sport gave to me.' He started volunteering, then took his coaching qualifications and hasn't looked back. 'Primarily I coach the mixed under-10s but I also coach the girls' club under-10s Valkyries team. I also help out with the men's second team to help with my own development as a coach. 'I'm not a Welsh boy, but my wife is Welsh and that is what brought me to Wrexham,' says David, who is involved with the rugby club for six days a week in various capacities on top of his day job as an engineer. 'I got involved when my children started playing when they were five. I'm a terrible watcher so I got into coaching,' he smiles. Nurturing the grassroots game and developing the junior section is, he says, vitally important. The funding will ensure Wrexham Rugby Club can afford to pay for its floodlighting, flags and post protectors - and even grass-cutting Credit : Gareth Iwan Jones 'If you look at the first team at present, the majority of those players have come through the minis and juniors at Wrexham. For the club to be sustainable, playing-wise and financially, it has to have a thriving junior section. We have 300-400 children playing and training every night, apart from Mondays.' Understandably the club has become a huge part of his life. 'It means a great deal,' he continues. 'It's like a second family if you will. 'The sense of belonging, of family and also having fun means a huge amount to me. You see how much enjoyment the children get from it. I am a massive fan of fitness. When kids are running around, they usually have a smile on their faces. 'Volunteers are so important for a community club. There is not one person here who is paid, everybody is a volunteer and without those people the club doesn't breathe. The kids love their rugby. 'This club wouldn't be here without volunteers – that's the stark fact. Every age-group team needs at least 50 volunteers and then there are all the committees. The grass doesn't cut itself!' As for many people, the life skills rugby teaches, such as respect, discipline and teamwork, are important to David. 'The values are everything to me,' he says. 'The values are what we teach children – respecting each other, respecting the opponents. I was brought up with values from rugby and it's great to still see them used today. 'The club is part of the community, and the community is part of the club, everybody benefits when those values are instilled in young kids. As a rugby coach it is not just about the rugby, it's about everyday values, behaviours on the pitch, off the pitch and behaviours they take away from the clubs and the game into the community and their schools. It's how they talk to people, how they talk to their parents. It helps give them confidence. 'As a club we have a strict policy with referees. Our players don't talk to referees, we just let them referee the game and that is our policy with all our children as well. So how will the financial prize be used? 'Part of this award will help support the club whether it be flags or post protectors or somebody cutting the grass, it will help the club run. It will also help towards repairs. It all takes funding. For instance, it costs £75 to run the floodlights for a one-hour training session in the evening. You can imagine the cost of this club. We massively appreciate this.' Making a difference – a proud sponsor of the Welsh Rugby Union – partnered with Telegraph Media Group to launch its Making a Difference campaign, rewarding individuals who have made a major contribution to grassroots rugby. Read about the two other winners who have put their heart and soul into helping British clubs. is a trading name of Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 465053).
Telegraph
30-01-2025
- Sport
- Telegraph
Celebrating grassroots rugby heroes who are making a difference
launched its Making a Difference campaign last year with Telegraph Media Group to recognise and reward the selfless dedication and commitment of those who make a real difference at rugby clubs across Britain. The price comparison website, which is also back-of-shirt sponsor for the Welsh Rugby Union, asked clubs to nominate their own unsung heroes who go over and above the call of duty, with a view to winning £5,000 for their club. There were more than 800 entries, each one with an incredible story to tell about local heroes across Wales, England and Scotland. The judges had an incredibly difficult time coming to a decision but ultimately there could be only three winners, one each from Wales, England and Scotland. Wrexham's David Dixon won the Welsh prize and you can read his story here, while Amy Terava from Ashbourne RFC and Rob Prudom from Panmure won the awards for England and Scotland. Having played rugby for all her adult years, Amy started volunteering at Ashbourne RFC five years ago and in 2023 she and her wife Jennamari took on the responsibility of founding a women's section. It has proved to be a resounding success. Terava volunteers at Ashbourne RFC, where she played a key role in founding the women's team Credit : Niall Hodson 'We thought to start with it might be a slow process and we might just get five to 10 people at training,' Amy, now 37, explains. 'But the growth has been incredible, and we now have 55 ladies on the books. As with all women's teams it can be a bit different, there can be much more of a revolving door. We have 10 players who are pregnant at this moment for instance.' One of the first things she did to boost recruitment was to focus on social media to try to establish a profile and attract sponsors, one of which is the firm where she works as an accountant. 'We wanted to be much more public facing. We have sold it as social rugby rather than super-competitive and by doing that and not pressurising people we are finding that a new member will then very often bring a friend along.' The prize money will be used to pay for drainage improvements on the three pitches Ashbourne RFC rents and uses Credit : Michael Hope-Smith Rugby has given her an outlet which she didn't expect. 'It's nice to be involved in something we didn't even have an option to do at school; that's the key to why we are enjoying it now. A lot of our team are older, slightly more mature women. Our women are those who either stayed in the town or have returned to the region after university or college. The majority of our players are 30 to 50.' The prize will help the club to grow and ease the pressures it faces on a regular basis. 'We don't have facilities here. We don't have a clubhouse, we don't have any money from beer sales, so the only money we have is sponsorship and subscriptions,' Amy explains. 'The money will be used to fund drainage improvements on the three pitches the club rents and uses – they get very boggy during the winter and we have had to postpone several games.' Rob Prudom, meanwhile, is a proud Yorkshireman who moved to the Dundee area in 1995 after university. Having played rugby from the age of six, he joined Panmure in 2003. He has been a long-time player, captain, fixtures secretary, treasurer and now runs the junior section. He is also involved in coaching rugby at three schools locally as well helping to grow the club's participation among children. 'We now have 60-70 kids playing every Sunday and my main job at the moment is trying to increase the number of our mini-rugby players and their exposure to the game. For me it's about giving back to a sport which has been a lifelong passion.' His involvement is, he says, about helping to make memories for the children. Prudom has taken on numerous roles at Panmure Rugby Club and is now responsible for overseeing the junior section Credit : Robert Ormerod 'The bottom line is that we want kids to be able to come together with their mates, play rugby and enjoy themselves in a nice environment. 'The fact that we have so many kids playing on a regular basis in a small community like ours makes us very proud. We took a bus to watch Scotland v Fiji and we had 80 kids and parents. We also had two of the Panmure Panthers – that's what we call our juniors – as Scotland mascots for the Australia game.' It is also about teaching life lessons, continues Rob, 52. 'On a rugby pitch you take responsibility for your behaviour, your own discipline and how you conduct yourself and we focus very much on that.' Prudom has dedicated everything to his club and is the driving force behind keeping the Panmure Panthers together Credit : Robert Ormerod The prize money will help to boost the club's schools programme and fund another coaching position. 'It will also enable us to hire minibuses for away fixtures for the schools in our area. State schools have a real struggle in Scotland, in particular with rugby, and filling that gap and exposing kids to the game is key for the local club to prosper.' Making a difference – a proud sponsor of the Welsh Rugby Union – partnered with the Telegraph Media Group to launch its Making a Difference campaign, rewarding individuals who have made a major contribution to grassroots rugby. Read about the Wales winner, David Dixon, and watch the moment Nigel Owens presented him with his prize. is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Register number 465053.
