Celebrating 125 years of LionHeart
We're delighted to be celebrating our 125th anniversary in 2024. LionHeart was founded in 1899 when Robert Vigers, as then outgoing president of the RICS, made an initial donation of £500 - worth at least £50,000 today - to establish the creation of an independent charity for chartered surveyors which would be managed by a separate body of trustees.
The idea was that the profession - in the absence of any kind of welfare state - would be able to provide for and support any widows and orphans of chartered surveyors. Over the years, we have evolved from a predominantly grant-giving charity to offering much wider support services to surveyors and their families across the globe. It’s been quite the journey!
Over our 125-year history, LionHeart has touched countless lives. We helped more people than ever during 2023. Helpline calls rose by another 14%, we delivered 1,400 hours of counselling and we sent grants to 20 different countries, helping more than 200 families in need.
However, as we look back proudly on our long history, we do have one eye on the future. As demand for our support continues to rise, we know there is still more to do, so we hope that donations and support from people like you will ensure we are here for at least another 125 years, helping future generations of surveyors too.
Here are just some of the different ways you can help LionHeart during our 125th year:
Spread the word…
Tell your colleagues, networks and social media followers about us, and encourage them to sign up to hear from us. The more people who know about us, the better!
Donate…
As an independent charity, we’re reliant on donations to continue providing our wide range of services and tailored support, ensuring we can help people like you, for generations to come. It’s quick and easy to donate to LionHeart online.
Follow us on socials…
LionHeart is on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and X so please give us a follow to ensure you hear all of our latest news.
Fundraise for us…
We’re so grateful to those who choose to fundraise for us! Could you take on a challenge this year, on your own or in a team, to raise money for LionHeart? Take a look at our Fundraising Guide for ideas and inspiration.
Check out our webinars or LionHeart Talks podcast…
LionHeart is not just there for times of crisis. We have a whole range of webinar topics to help you thrive, at work and at home, and a podcast with your health and wellbeing at heart.
