Looking to challenge yourself – all while raising vital funds for a good cause? Down Syndrome Ireland (DSI) has launched a new virtual fundraising event, challenging people to run, jog, walk, cycle or swim a distance of 100 kms in 21 days. Participants can complete the challenge however and wherever they wish over 21 consecutive days from when they kick off – whether they complete the distance in their local park, on the streets or in their gym.
Alison Kelly, Fundraising Manager, Down Syndrome Ireland said: “Down syndrome occurs when there is one extra copy of chromosome 21 in cells in the body. As that number has particular meaning for DSI and the Down syndrome community, we chose it as the number of days in which participants complete the 100 kms. It’s an interesting challenge and one we hope people will be excited to get behind.”
The charity is offering a wonderful opportunity for participants to meet some of their 3,500 members and their families from around the country at their annual celebration of World Down Syndrome Day, the Purple Run – which takes place at 11am on Sunday 22nd March in the Phoenix Park. The Purple Run is an all-inclusive family event open to people of all age groups and abilities. Free entry to the Purple Run is available to those who reach their 21 Day Challenge fundraising target by Sunday 15th March. Funds raised will be used to help the charity meet its annual fundraising target of €4.2 million to continue providing essential services, programmes and supports to the charity’s 3,500 members and their famiilies across the country.
Alison Kelly, Fundraising Manager, Down Syndrome Ireland said: “Completing 100 kms in just 21 days is no easy challenge but with the flexibility of being able to mix it up and do part swimming, part running or maybe part walking, it’s a challenge that’s achievable. Whether people take part in their gym, in their local park or on the streets, they can decide the place and they decide the pace. We’re appealing to people to get involved. It’s a great way to get active with family, friends or colleagues, have some fun and help raise money to support our work.”
For more information see www.downsyndrome.ie/event/dsi-21-day-challenge/ or email alisonk@downsyndrome.ie.
Join the conversation online using the hashtag #DSI21DayChallenge and #Fundraising4DSI.
