Legacy
Legacy
Please note: this post is 107 months old and The Cares Family is no longer operational. This post is shared for information only
In the 18 months I've been with South London Cares, the thing that never stops amazing me is the passion, energy and enthusiasm of our wonderful volunteers.
Indeed, those three qualities were in abundance on Saturday 2nd July, when 18 of our South London Cares family – along with sister charity North London Cares – took part in the London 2 Cambridge Challenge and walked 50km or 100km to raise vital funds for their older neighbours.
It was an early start, with the 37 strong team gathering at Hackney Marshes for 7:30am. Luckily, the sun was shining, and there was endless free tea and coffee to get us ready for the day ahead. After a Zumba warm-up (so much hip shaking), the team set off on their challenge.
Last year's walking team took on the Thames Path Challenge, and there was some apprehension as to whether this route would be as picturesque. But we needn't have been nervous as we were treated to some beautiful scenery along the way. Heana, Sam and the gang headed along the River Lea, through urban north London and then on to scenic cornfields, making use of the many food pit stops along the way. Endless energy bars, chocolate and nuts kept us fuelled along the way.
As well as grub, conversation and laughter also kept us motivated. When the terrain became rocky and the challenge was tough, sharing stories about Richard, Frances, Geoff, Miriam and our older neighbours kept us going. We reminded ourselves that it was these friendships we were walking for – these opportunities to share valuable time with our community that the challenge was in aid of. And when we reached the 50km finish line at Braughing, we toasted to the achievements of the day.
For Liam and Mateja, 50km was only halfway. Indeed, they continued to walk through the night – battling blisters, sleep deprivation and tired muscles – to complete the 100km walk to Cambridge. It took them a total 27 hours. We are in awe of you both!
We are in awe of all of our volunteers and supporters who take on a challenge in aid of South London Cares. Because of your commitment, energy and determination – because of your bravery and fundraising – neighbours like Harry, Jean and Lupita feel on top of the world and a part of their community. And this will last longer than any bruise or blister.
Indeed, the friendships formed during the London 2 Cambridge challenge amongst our volunteers will also last beyond the day itself. There's something special in facing a challenge together; in battling all day (and all night!) for our neighbours in Brixton, Bermondsey and beyond. And if that sounds like something you want to be a part of, we have three opportunities to get involved in one of our growing challenge teams.
1. Thames Path Challenge- On Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th September, walk, jog or run 50km or 100km along the River Thames.
2. Bear Grylls Survival Race - Imagine completing a Bear Grylls style obstacle course, but in Brent rather than the Jungle. Choose a distance of 5km, 10km or 30km and put your survival skills to the test.
3. London 2 Brighton Challenge – Join our 2017 walking team and walk 50km or 100km over May bank holiday weekend (27th & 28th May).
If any of these take your fancy, simply fill out the form below and Emily will be in touch with more information. Hope to see you there!