A south west London charity has launched a virtual fundraising challenge to raise money for mental health support.
Richmond Borough Mind supports over 4,600 people with mental health needs across the borough every year.
The 100 Miles in May challenge aim to get people active and raise funds for the charity by walking or running 100 miles throughout May.
Richmond Borough Mind’s business development manager Suzanne Lynn-Vuorinen said: “It’s incredibly powerful to see people not only raising funds, but also experiencing the wellbeing benefits themselves.
“Knowing that the challenge is helping people feel better whilst also supporting others makes it so meaningful”.
Richmond Borough Mind provides support through a range of services including crisis cafes, counselling and peer support and recovery programmes.
Their services offer early intervention, help to reduce isolation and provide an alternative to A&E for those in crisis.
Lynn-Vuorinen said that while their client’s issues are becoming more complex, the charity’s work prevents people from reaching a crisis point, which ultimately reduces pressure on the NHS.
The 100 Miles in May challenge is designed to be flexible and inclusive, so participants can join individually or as part of a team.
The challenge promotes the benefits of staying active, while creating a shared sense of purpose as people and communities come together to support a meaningful cause, and was inspired by the efforts of one of their fundraisers.
Lynn-Vuorinen said: “We had a supporter who ran three marathons for us over the course of a month, and it really captured people’s hearts, so her efforts inspired the design of the challenge.
“We wanted to create something that not only raises funds, but also gives people a practical way to look after their own wellbeing.
“There is a powerful link between physical activity and mental wellbeing, so it compliments our cause perfectly”.
However, the cost of living crisis is impacting the sustainability of the charity’s work.
Lynn-Vuorinen explained the funding landscape for local charities has been incredibly tough, with wider economic issues impacting both their supporters and their own operating costs.
The money raised from this challenge will help Richmond Borough Mind continue to provide mental health support across the area.
To get involved or donate to the challenge, visit the Richmond Borough Mind website.
Feature image: Arek Adeoye on Unsplash
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