Charity events are a great way for people to challenge themselves while raising money for a good cause. According to the 2014 UK Giving study by the Charities Aid Foundation, the total amount donated to charity by UK adults has been on the increase, topping £10.6 billion in 2014.
The large number of challenges for charity events available all year round makes it easy for people to find something that suits their fun and experience levels. Those interested in participating can take their pick from family-friendly challenges, team-building opportunities or women-only events. Although running events are all the rage, others such as trekking, cycling, swimming and skydiving – to name a few – are rapidly gaining popularity.
Fun and challenging charity events worth taking part in include:
- Tough Mudder.
This is a demanding half-marathon distance obstacle course that is designed to test the stamina, mental grit and strength of participants. Tough Mudder events are scattered throughout the year and feature obstacles such as scaling inverted fences and crawling under sharp razor wire. Some of the proceeds from this event go towards supporting Help for Heroes.
Help for Heroes is a charity that supports servicemen, women and veterans who have become ill or sustained injuries in the course of discharging their duties. The charity also helps their close family and dependents. Help for Heroes focuses on helping wounded military personnel to achieve their full potential through a wide network of recovery centres that offer both physiological and psychological support.
- Race for Life.
This is a series of women-only events that are aimed at raising money for Cancer Research UK. Depending on their fitness levels, endurance and motivation, participants can take part in any of the 200 plus 5km, 10km, half-marathon or marathon events organized annually in different parts of the country.
- The Forth Rail Bridge Abseil.
This adrenaline-charged charity event is meant to raise money for Barnardo’s, the UK’s leading children’s charity. During this exciting, professionally organised event, participants get to abseil 165ft down Scotland’s famous landmark – the Forth Rail Bridge – to the beach below, cheered on by family and other onlookers. This requires a tough stomach and a high tolerance for heights.
- The Great Scottish Swim.
Those who are not afraid to take a dip in the chilly, clear waters of Loch Lomond can sign up for the Great Scottish Swim. This event is a fundraiser for the Arthritis Care charity whose purpose is to empower those affected by arthritis. In this revitalising event, swimmers can elect to take part in any of the five swimming distances, ranging from the half mile to the 10km swim, with finishers taking home a Great Swim towel and medal.
- The Marie Curie Etape Caledonia.
Cycling enthusiasts can be part of this 130km closed road bike ride that winds through the picturesque Scottish Highlands. The event aims to raise funds for Marie Curie, a charity that provides care and support for people living with any terminal illness in the UK.
Participants need to prepare adequately for these charity challenges through proper physical training and optimal nutrition. Combine this preparation with motivation and the desire to push one’s limits and individuals are guaranteed to have the time of their lives while raising money for charity.