A CHARITY supporting children with additional needs is holding a community fundraiser and row-a-thon.

Me2 Club will welcome a team of rowers from Ellis Knight Recruitment next Friday (May 25) for an eight-hour challenge in Woodley precinct.

There will be prizes to see who can row the longest an opportunity to help with donations by taking part in a cake and toy sale from 8.30am.

A team of volunteers support young people by finding buddies and helping children to take part in a mainstream activity of their choice.

Liz McDaniel, fundraising officer for Me2 Club, said: "We are hoping to raise our profile with this community event.

"We are increasing our community fundraising efforts this year and we have already had a successful stall at the Wokingham May Fayre, plus we are one of the charities supported by Woodley Carnival.

"Members of the community are welcome to jump on and help out with the rowing challenge.

"Many young people struggle to access these activities because of their needs, resulting in social isolation, lack of confidence and self-esteem."

The charity, which cares for more than 100 children in Wokingham Borough every year, is celebrating its 15th anniversary with a bumper schedule of fundraising ideas.

Me2 works closely with mainstream activity leaders helping them to make their activities more accessible and welcoming by providing comprehensive training.

Liz added: "Fundraising is going well, but grant funding is getting more difficult so we are trying to do some more community events this year.

"Recruitment is also a challenge. It is something that all small charities struggle with, as we only have a small team.

"We are always happy to hear from people who can help support our work and reduce the number of people waiting to be paired up with a buddy."

As well as providing opportunities for young people to take part in swimming, dancing and Scouts, Me2 organises annual outings, which are regularly oversubscribed.