Norfolk’s sight loss charity Vision Norfolk has launched an ambitious fundraising campaign to mark its 220th birthday – with the aim of raising £220,000 over the next 12 months to boost the support it offers people living with sight loss across the county.
The charity is challenging people to come up with fundraising initiatives themed around the number 220 – from doing an activity for 220 minutes continuously, through taking on a 220 mile challenge, to setting a target of raising £220.
Challenges already in the pipeline include two dancers who are aiming to take to the floor with 220 different partners in one weekend, to a group of volunteers who are crafting and selling 220 stuffed toys.
Two members of the charity’s staff who are undertaking the challenge this month are deputy chief executive Barbara Dunn, who is walking 220 miles during May with her labrador, a retired guide dog called Cherry, and community outreach worked Chris Linstead, who will take on the 220 mile Rebellion Way cycle route around Norfolk in a single 36 hour period over the late May bank holiday weekend.
“I really wanted to take on this challenge because it is a cause close to my heart,” said Barbara Dunn. “As well as working for Vision Norfolk myself, my 17-year-old son is registered severely sight impaired. I see first-hand the challenges that people with sight loss face every day, and I know just how important it is to have the right support in place.
“Vision Norfolk makes a real difference to families like mine, and I want to do my part to give back.”
Mr Linstead was looking for a challenge to mark turning 40 earlier this year. Although he enjoys cycling, the longest distance he has tackled to date is 112 miles from London to Dunwich – his bank holiday ride will be twice that.
“I will be aiming to complete the ride in 36 hours, with an overnight stop in a tent in west Norfolk,” he said. “I wanted to set myself a challenge as I entered my fifth decade, and this seemed like a good way of doing that and supporting a great cause at the same time.”
Vision Norfolk chief executive Andrew Morter said, “We are one of Norfolk’s longest-established charities, and we have been supporting people living with sight loss to lead independent and fulfilled lives since 1805.
“Sadly the financial challenges facing charities haven’t got any easier over the years, which is why we have decided to mark our 200th year with this ambitious fundraising challenge.
“We would love to hear from anyone who would like to take up the 220 Challenge and make a difference for vision impaired people in Norfolk.”
Details of how to get involved in Vision Norfolk’s 220 Challenge can be found at www.visionnorfolk.org.uk.
