In 2013, Raj and Sue Soni’s lives were changed forever when their son Raj died following a cycling accident. The outpouring of love for him lit the flame in his family to do something positive to capture his spirit by supporting young people through sport and music – Raj’s two big loves. “Raj had a happy, secure childhood with lots of opportunities, so he knew the joy and fulfilment that sport and music give young people. Because we both grew up in Bristol, we knew that too many children and young people here don’t have those same chances,” Sue said.
At first, Raj and Sue considered setting up a charity in Raj’s name but were daunted by the administrative burden and compliance required. Through their network, they heard about Quartet Community Foundation and after meeting with the foundation, they realised that Quartet could free them from the administration and provide advice and support.
“Quartet has been a great support, helping us find the way to achieve our aims. We’re delighted that the Raj K Soni Legacy Fund is helping to transform lives.”
Raj and Sue fundraise every year to support projects in their chosen themes of music and sport. The high point of their fundraising each year is “The Longest Swim”, a marathon swimming gala that saw 500 participants in 2017 at the Portishead Lido. Since 2013, the fund has raised over £100,000 and supported over 40 different projects.
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