07939 844978The Starfish Story is really important to our Founder and CEO, Laura Smyth.
“Every day we have the honour and privilege of doing our very best to make a difference to the incredible children and families who come through our Playhouse doors. At the very beginning of our Yorda journey, a kind lady told me this story when I was explaining my dreams for the future to have a safe place for all of our children to come and play. We have used this to steer our decisions so that we don’t lose sight of each and every child whilst we have grown over the last 15 years. I’m so grateful to all who have supported us, encouraged, advised and fundraised to help us make that initial ambition a reality. I’m especially proud of my brilliant team, past and present, who share in my commitment to play enthusiastically, care with compassion and bring joy to our Yorda family every day.”
An old man was walking along the beach one day after a storm. In the distance, he saw someone moving like a dancer. As he got closer, he saw it was a woman picking up starfish and gently throwing them into the sea.
“Why are you throwing them into the sea? There are many miles of beach and thousands of starfish. You cannot possibly make a difference.”
The woman listened, then bent down, picked up another starfish, then threw it into the sea.
“It made a difference to that one.”
‘Yorda’ is how Reuben, one of the children who inspired the community company to begin, says ‘Laura’. ‘Adventures’ symbolises the unique, fun experiences we want to give to all the children and young people.
Yorda Adventures could not have achieved all it has without the amazing dedication of the people that make up the Yorda team and who have supported Laura over the years. Starting as a tiny social enterprise back in 2006, fast forward to now and the Yorda team continues to grow and offer a variety of projects to support children and young people with significant learning disabilities and their families, making a difference everyday.