On Sunday 8 September, I, alongside twelve of my colleagues at Active will be taking part in the Middlesbrough 10k Run as part of our commitment to raise £5,000 during the year for very needy local causes.

This is done via our Patronage of The Middlesbrough and Teesside Philanthropic Society, set up in 2011 to help local causes that would normally struggle to receive support by other means, and to provide social and economic opportunities that would not otherwise have existed in the Middlesbrough and Teesside area.

So far this year, the Foundation has already helped establish the Middlesbrough Powerchair Football Team and the Middlesbrough Wheelchair Basketball Team, helping individuals experience the simple things that we all take for granted on a daily basis. Details of these magnificent achievements can be found by visiting the following link: http://teessidecharity.org.uk/media-coverage/

Now for my “shy bairns get nowt” moment!

With all types of fundraising, the Foundation is reliant upon the kind generosity of individuals and companies parting with their hard earned cash, or by finding the time to help those in need.  The Team at Active have therefore committed both for 2013, and for this we are very proud. 

This email is therefore to ask if you could do either to support us, however small that may be?  From a small financial donation via our Just Giving site, or by standing along the 10k route on Sunday 8 to give us a much needed motivational cheer, all will be greatly appreciated and welcomed.

As you will know, some members of the team are much fitter than others, however, I am sure all will struggle with a 10k run, having NO RUNNERS amongst the line-up!!  This is surely worth throwing in an extra £ or two for the blood, sweat and tears that we’ll all shed.

Should a donation be possible, we will be very grateful.  The easiest way to do this being via the following Just Giving link: http://www.justgiving.com/teams/ActiveFinancial

Alternatively, or as well as (if you are being very kind), you could forward this message to anyone else you feel would like to support us or the Philanthropic Foundation in our quest to help those in need in our wonderful Teesside region.

Thank You again in advance, and I hope to report positive news after the 8 September.