John Haynes was a legend in the Liverpool business community and a foundation set up in his name is on track to deliver its target of ‘helping 1m people reach their full potential’. Tony McDonough reports
More than £36,913 was raised for the John Haynes Foundation following a gala dinner in Liverpool in September.
Hundreds of guests attended the event at the Hilton Hotel in the city centre on Saturday, September 17. The exact amount raised – £36,913 will go towards the foundation’s goal of helping 1m people reach their full potential.
John Haynes was the founder of the Liverpool Coaching Academy. He supported and inspired a generation of entrepreneurs both here and overseas to, in his own words, “fly with the eagles”.
He took his expertise far and wide, operating as far afield as Australia and the Middle East. John also raised thousands of pounds for a town in Kenya which has been left devastated by a terrorist bomb. John died in December 2020 but left a legacy that will be long remembered.
In 2021, a number of Liverpool city region business people decided to set up the John Haynes Foundation with the aim of continuing his work and “transforming 1m lives”. The first gala fundraising dinner was held in September 2021.
Money raised from this year’s event had, said foundation chair Hilda Yarker, “surpassed all expectations”. Sponsored by Everton the evening was themed ‘The Greatest Showman’ in tribute to John.
Paul Askew, Chef Patron at The Arts School in Liverpool, in collaboration with the Hilton Liverpool Head Chef, prepared a special menu for the event.
During the evening Hilda shared with the audience the progress that had been made since the foundation was formed just over a year ago. A video was shown illustrating the positive impact that had been made with the students that participated in the foundation pilot programme which took place at The City of Liverpool College.
She added that a long-term partnership had been formed with the college. They provided sound and light, photography, video, dance and singing performances, makeup and even handmade chocolates for the guests.
“They showcased the talents of their amazing students and team,” said Hilda. “It was an incredible evening and we were overwhelmed by the support from everyone who played a part.
“All the sponsors and supporters who attended and donated and donated are helping to create an incredible legacy. John’s loss was felt deeply by many many people. He was an inspiration and, through the work of the foundation, his spirit and boundless energy will live on and will continue to inspire a new generation.”
Everton FC chief executive, Denise Barrett-Baxendale, attended on the night and the audience also heard speeches from foundation patrons city region Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram as well Paul Askew. They spoke of John’s profound impact on everyone he met.
It was also a special occasion for John’s life partner and foundation Chief Ambassador Linda Adkins and her family. They were able to see how the work of the foundation will help others to build resilience so they can realise their full potential and “fly with the eagles”.
Click here for more information about the foundation or if you would like to support its work.