Local runner, David Becker, will be taking on a 24-hour challenge alongside 20 colleagues to raise funds for the Guernsey Rural Occupational Workshop (GROW).
The 24-hour challenge will take place on Friday 5th March, starting at 9am, with each participant walking, running or cycling for an allocated one to two hours. The money raised during the event will go towards GROW’s plans to improve existing buildings and greenhouses, installing a new fully equipped workshop and a hospitality training kitchen that will give workers the experience of handling money, customer service and using household kitchen equipment.
£3 million is needed to complete the redevelopment and a fundraising target of £1.5 million by October this year has been set.
David Becker, who is an audit partner at Deloitte in Guernsey, has organised this challenge ahead of taking part in the Jungle Ultra Marathon this year. The Ultra Marathon was due to take place in 2020, but because of the coronavirus pandemic, it was rescheduled for June 2021.
David has previously completed several ultra-distance challenges including the Wye Valley Ultra, Pilgrim Challenge and Hadrian’s Wall.
David commented: “Due to the uncertainty of the Jungle Ultra Marathon again this year, I have been looking at other ways we can continue to support GROW. The initial plan was to run for 24 hours around Footes Lane on my own but, due to the current restrictions, we have had to come up with a new plan. I am excited to have my colleagues get involved in something a bit different and all for a great cause”.
Mike De Robillard, a director at Deloitte, who is taking part in the challenge, added: “I am really looking forward to getting on the bike and contributing to David’s 24-hour challenge. This is a great initiative for staff to get involved with, especially during the lockdown to foster the Guernsey Together spirit within our own teams. It’s something fun to keep up morale and a really nice way to continue serving the community during what has been a challenging time for everyone!”
Last October, Deloitte began a three-year collaboration with local charity GROW as part of Deloitte’s firm wide 5 Million Futures initiative (5MF). 5MF is our goal to help five million people overcome barriers to education and employment by 2030 – empowering individuals with the skills they need to succeed. 5MF supports Deloitte’s global WorldClass goal to empower 50 million people by 2030.
GROW provides development and support to individuals who are learning disabled, physically disabled or suffering from mental health issues. Individuals are given the opportunity of supported employment or attendance training in a safe and secure environmental workshop.
