A SOUTH READING charity is calling on members of the community to take part in a unique fundraising challenge.
On June 17-18, Chapter2 will be attempting to complete a 100km walk in 24 hours, with the aim of raising £100,000 to aid its work.
Entitled the Ridgeway Challenge, the children’s charity has laid out a scenic route which starts at Pewsey and ends in Reading Town Centre. It passes through two areas of outstanding natural beauty and takes in sites such as Avebury stone circle, white horse carvings and bronze age forts.
The 2023 running of the annual challenge differs from previous years where the charity’s fundraisers have opted to climb mountains across Britain.
Dr Richard Kay, Chapter2’s chair of trustees, said: “We’re really excited about it, and also a bit nervous. It’s a bit different from previous years.
“I’m someone who feels comfortable in the mountains on uneven terrain, whereas this will be a bit of a slog. It’ll be much more accessible to all though, especially those who have no mountain-climbing experience.
“100km was a nice round number which we thought worked well with our target of raising £100,000. Given the sheer distance, we’re mindful that some may not manage to finish the route so we’ve made sure that people can drop out as and when they want, with volunteers on-hand to pick them up.”
The challenge fittingly takes place on Father’s Day; Chapter2 working alongside boys who, for one reason or another, have experienced the absence of a father. It offers long-term one-to-one mentoring with a dedicated, fully-trained adult male mentor.
Through organised activities and regular contact, they look to tackle some of the effects of fatherlessness such as low self-esteem, poor mental well-being and involvement in crime and gangs.
Data shows a strong correlation between socioeconomic circumstances and cohabitation rates. Children of the wealthiest families have a 96 percent chance of living with two parents, whereas in the poorest families, that figure is just 28 percent.
Dr Kay believes the longevity of the relationships established makes Chapter2’s work impactful with mentors required to commit to a minimum of two years and many lasting until adulthood.
Having completed last year’s 24 Peaks challenge with his son, Dr Kay is excited to do the same this time around, describing it as a ‘great opportunity to bond’.
The Ridgeway Challenge is open to all, and there are various opportunities to help out on the day for those who do not wish or are unable to cover the distance.
For more information or to sign up, visit: www.chapter2.org.uk/fdc
