Dementia Jersey is challenging everyone to walk or run 50 miles this January to help raise money to support people in Jersey living with dementia.
The 50 Mile Challenge was originally organised by one of Dementia Jersey’s volunteers, Simone Sains, and has since become one of the charity’s most successful fundraising events.
This year, the charity has partnered with the Government of Jersey as an effort to join forces and encourage islanders to take on the challenge to get outdoors and be active.
Claudine Snape, Dementia Jersey CEO said: “In January 2023, we had over 300 participants, raising more than £18,000 and we would love to exceed those numbers this year. It’s great to have Government of Jersey partnering with us on this challenge and we hope, together, we inspire islanders to get active whilst helping to raise valuable funds for Dementia Jersey. Staying physically active can improve your brain health, keep your heart healthy and improve your ability to do everyday activities. All money raised from sign ups and fundraising will go towards providing a lifeline to people with dementia and their families and helping make Jersey a more dementia friendly island.”
Ell Hopton, Active Travel Engagement Officer, Government of Jersey commented: “We’re very happy to be supporting this initiative, which will encourage more islanders to travel actively and help us on our collective journey to net zero, as set out in the Carbon Neutral Roadmap. Small changes can make a big difference, so I encourage Islanders to wrap up warm and see whether they can swap out at least one shorter car journey for active travel.
“Not only is walking a great way to accomplish your new year goals of getting fitter, Islanders will also be saving money and helping the environment. By increasing active travel throughout January, you will be creating great habits for the rest of the year.
“We encourage workplaces to get involved, supporting employees to be more active and reduce their carbon footprint in 2024.”
Participants are asked to complete 50 miles by 31st January, and they can either walk or run at their own pace. All the money raised from the challenge will be used by the charity to provide support for islanders living with dementia, and their carers and families.
