Hostage International launches its first mass challenge fundraiser
To mark the 30th anniversary of our co-founder Terry Waite’s release from captivity Hostage International is inviting you to join its Beirut & Back – Challenge for All fundraising event.
The virtual event will see people using any human-powered means to contribute towards covering 5700 miles, the distance from Terry’s home in Suffolk to Beirut – and back.
Mike Millward, Hostage International Trustee, who is leading on the event, said: “Against the backdrop of Covid and a rise in the number of people Hostage International supports, we wanted to try hosting a fun event to help people support those affected by the trauma of hostage-taking.
“It’s the first year we’ve held an event like this, but as it is nearly three decades since Terry was released, we wanted to do something meaningful to celebrate his work while raising funds for the charity he co-founded. We’re hoping that the surge in keep fit will inspire people to help Hostage International while out walking, running, cycling etc…”
Terry Waite was held hostage in Beirut for nearly 5 years, mainly in solitary confinement, and was released on 18 November 1991.
From Saturday 4 to Sunday 12 September 2021 people can participate by walking, running, cycling, spinning, swimming, or take part in your wheelchair, or some people may want to use their rollerblades.
Mike said: “We’re hoping people of all ages and abilities will help us clock up the miles and together raise essential funds to provide practical and emotional support to those whose lives have been affected by a loved one being taken hostage, or hostages after their release.”
Our social media feeds will provide regular updates of the miles covered and monies raised as we drive towards our target of 5700 miles.
Lara Symons, Hostage International CEO, said: “This is the first time Hostage International has held an event like this and while we’re trialling it primarily in the UK, we would be delighted for anyone across the world to join in.
“We’re hoping for a successful event and that we’ll be able to roll it out even further next year.”
How can you get involved?
- Sign up via event organisers UltraBritain to register and help fund our unique work.
- If you’d like to raise even more please start a fundraising page for Hostage International via Just Giving and raise as much as you can.
- If this isn’t your thing, maybe you’d like to give us a donation to support our work.
June 2020
