Giving and gratitude are the best resolutions, says charity

As gyms brace for the influx of newbies they see every new year, one Bristol-based charity is urging people to make a resolution to invest in their mental well-being as well.   

According to the children’s hospice at home, Jessie May, one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve and maintain good mental health is to give and feel gratitude for what we have.

Recent research concurs. Studies from Psychology Today and The Conover Company show that gratitude and giving not only uplift others but also enhance the giver’s emotional resilience and happiness. Supporting causes close to your heart can lower stress, improve sleep, strengthen relationships, and foster a positive mindset. These benefits are especially valuable during difficult times, helping individuals maintain good mental and emotional health.

Jessie May CEO Daniel Cheesman explained:

“Giving to Jessie May, whether that’s in the form of volunteering, donating, fundraising or simply sharing our social media content, isn’t just about the impact on the families we support; it’s about the sense of connection and purpose it brings to our community of supporters, and it helps our families to feel less alone. Knowing that your contribution is changing lives can inspire hope and positivity in your own life.”

It’s an ethos that’s shared by Jessie May staff both in and out of work. 

Jessie May fundraiser Kath Jones said:

“This year, I helped my niece complete her brownie badges, and it was such a rewarding experience. I’m incredibly grateful for the time I get to spend with her. For my 2025 New Year’s resolution, I plan to continue supporting her with school projects and brownie badges, as well as continuing to support causes close to my heart. I feel so thankful for the donations we receive at Jessie May, and being able to give back to other causes brings me joy, knowing that others will experience that same sense of gratitude. Recently, we held a ‘Thankathon’ at Jessie May, where we called our supporters to thank them for their donations and express our appreciation. It was an incredibly rewarding experience.”

Jessie May nurse Sam Micciche said:

“Over the course of a month, I committed to daily exercise to raise money for charity in honour of my dad. I’ve decided to continue supporting the charity and my dad in 2025 because it not only benefits me physically but also emotionally and mentally. It helps me navigate through tough times, especially with the support of so many others.” 

Operations apprentice Benjamin Roper said:

“This year, I’ve had the opportunity to attend a variety of events while working for Jessie May. One that stands out for me is the family Christmas party, where we introduced the new VR station for the kids. Seeing how much they enjoyed it made me feel proud, as it helped create lasting memories for the children and gave me the chance to connect with the families. It really showed me why we do what we do. This experience has inspired me to continue volunteering at events in 2025, as it’s the part of my job I enjoy the most – being immersed in the lives of the families we support.” 

CEO Daniel added:

“Our supporters and staff tell us every day that giving strengthens their emotional resilience and well-being, offering a profound sense of fulfilment and purpose.”

To get involved with Jessie May in 2025 and make a difference for children with life-limiting conditions and their families, please visit: Support us | Jessie May.