The Vaila Fund was established in 2009 following the death of Vaila Harvey, a 16-year-old from Dunrossness. It was created to financially support disadvantaged children and young people in Shetland to experience the life-changing benefits of travel.
The fund enabled young people to visit new places and experience different cultures, history, food, traditions, and activities. These opportunities encouraged personal growth, increased confidence and independence, broadened horizons, and helped strengthen friendships while creating new social connections.
In 2018, management of the fund transferred to Voluntary Action Shetland (VAS) to enable wider promotion and ensure the fund continued to benefit Shetland's young people. The transfer also expanded eligibility from teenagers to children and young people aged 5 to 18 years. Since 2018, VAS has awarded 34 grants to children and young people and distributed £17,573 directly to support travel opportunities.
The Vaila Fund has now closed, having successfully distributed all available funds. While no longer accepting applications, the fund leaves behind a lasting legacy. Through the generosity of its supporters and the vision of Vaila Harvey's family, many disadvantaged children and young people in Shetland were given opportunities to travel, learn, grow in confidence, and experience the wider world.
The fund's impact continues through the experiences, memories, and personal development of the young people it supported, ensuring that Vaila Harvey's legacy lives on through the opportunities it created for others.
