Fundraising success stories
From running a marathon or cycling across the country to hiking across mountains, there are hundreds of fundraising events out there that you can take part in. Who better to offer advice on tackling a challenge event than some of our very own amazing supporters?
John O'Groats to Land's End
Joe Wallwork cycled 980 miles from John O’Groats to Land’s End to raise over £850 for Friends of the Earth.
"I really enjoyed the journey and it was a massively rewarding experience to receive so many donations," says Joe.
The best part was getting to the end. Beautiful landscape, amazing weather and lovely people to meet me.
"I really respect Friends of the Earth as an organisation. I have a regular donation and attended the climate talks in Paris, and the conference in London this year in response to the UK floods.
"The current political system is side-lining the enormous issue that is climate change. I’ve been raising money through my JustGiving page and have received donations from friends, family and local businesses. My plan is to study a course called Mathematics of Planet Earth and apply my knowledge of mathematics to the problem of climate change”.
The London Marathon as a bee!
Holly Robson ran the London Marathon dressed as a bee.
“I ran the London Marathon to support Friends of the Earth’s ‘Save the Bee’ campaign," says Holly, pictured below.
"Having earned a ballot place, I was free to choose the charity I wanted to support, and the bee campaign was a cause I felt passionate about.
As part of my fundraising efforts I applied for, and was accepted by Guinness World Records, to attempt to break the record as the fastest marathon dressed as an insect, or in my case, a bee.
"I clocked 3 hours, 45 minutes. I didn’t break the record but it didn’t matter in the end. The support from Friends of the Earth was great and they posted my post-marathon photo on their Facebook page resulting in donations from people I didn’t even know.
"My final fundraising total was £1,100, smashing my £500 target. I am so pleased I was able to raise awareness and money for a cause that is important to me.”
So throw on your trainers, get on your bike or put on that swim cap (or do all of them if you're taking on a triathlon) and get training.
A charity garden party
Carrie Pailthorpe held an event in her garden to raise money for Friends of the Earth. Check out her photo album of the day.
“When we decided to have an open garden and music afternoon to raise some money for charity, Friends of the Earth was the obvious choice to benefit from the event.
We’ve long supported the organisation, and wanted to promote local home-based food production – something Friends of the Earth are keen to promote too.
"Friends and neighbours all pitched in to serve tea, make cakes, take photos, perform music and knit in the sun. It was tremendously hard work, but so rewarding, and we raised over £400 for Friends of the Earth.”
Walking to work for a whole year
Rosemary Snelgar walked to work every day for a year to raise £653.12 for Friends of the Earth.
If possible, why not choose to walk or cycle to work for a month or even a year and raise money in the process? It’s not just a sustainable commuting method, but it’s also a great way to keep fit.
We are here to support you. If you need further help, please get in touch with us at [email protected] or 0800 581 051.