Yorkshire’s Young Superstars
This year, support from the Better Community Business Network (BCBN) as a £1311.90 grant enabled SNAPS Yorkshire CIO to deliver one of its most joyful and inclusive annual events: the SNAPS Superstar Awards. Designed to celebrate the achievements of children with disabilities and their families, the event ensures every child and their support network feels recognised, valued, and uplifted. Thanks to BCBN’s funding, SNAPS was able to create a fully accessible celebration complete with entertainment, crafts, refreshments, trophies, and certificates—little details that make a big difference to families who often face significant daily challenges.
The impact of the BCBN grant was felt across the entire community. A total of 159 people attended, including 51 award-winning children, 60 parents and carers, 26 volunteers, and 7 staff members. An additional 15 awards were presented to volunteers and corporate supporters who go above and beyond for SNAPS families. Children aged 0–16 with additional needs were at the heart of the celebration, along with their siblings, who were also recognised for their resilience and support. The event welcomed families from across West Yorkshire and represented the rich diversity of the local community; ensuring everyone, regardless of background or circumstance, had a safe, inclusive space to celebrate.
Feedback demonstrated just how transformative the event was. Every token placed into the “How has this event made you feel?” bucket was marked “happy”—with the only “sad” token coming from a child who didn’t want the day to end. Families reported feeling more confident, connected, and energised in the weeks following the Awards. Comments such as “We always feel happy at SNAPS!” and “It was a fabulous morning celebrating all the superheroes” highlight the emotional impact of a day designed purely to celebrate strengths, not struggles. For many families—especially those facing financial strain or isolation—this event provided a rare opportunity to come together without judgment, cost, or stress.
The long-term impact of the BCBN grant extends beyond the event itself. By allowing SNAPS to invest savings into a new PA system, BCBN has strengthened the charity’s ability to run high-quality, accessible events for years to come. This equipment will now support major milestones like next year’s Superstar Awards, the Superhero Challenge, and fundraising events across the region. As well as enhancing SNAPS’ reputation and reach, the grant has helped deepen relationships with funders, volunteers, and local leaders—ensuring that children with additional needs and their families continue to feel celebrated, supported, and part of a thriving community.
Media Highlights:
https://southleedslife.com/shine-a-light-on-someone-special-with-the-snaps-super-stars-awards/
*credit photographs to Jenny C Cooper Photography*
