TEAM GROW raises over £2,000 for Mental Health Charity 'Core Arts' on Hackney Half Marathon day

On Sunday 20 May, the 8 runners of TEAM GROW took on the Hackney Half Marathon.  For most of them it was their first half marathon so they needed inspiration to take on this 13.1 mile challenge... they found it in the amazing work of local mental health charity 'Core Arts'!

With over 24 years experience of promoting positive mental health and wellbeing through creative learning, Core Arts provides quality education, training, employment and social enterprise initiatives that enable people who experience mental health issues to overcome barriers, fulfil their potential and participate fully in their community.

The morning of Sunday 20 May came.  It was a hot day so the runners needed to be mindful of the heat whilst taking on the challenge but they all completed (and enjoyed!) the run, with some remarkable times.  For their effort, their friends and family rewarding them by generously sponsoring them over £1,700 - making them one of the most successful fundraising pages on JustGiving in May (the top 3%!). Wow!  Well done runners and thanks for the generosity of your family and friends.  The fundraising page is still open so there is still time to donate on Grow's JustGiving website.

The after-party, with legendary DJ Dominic Benjamin belting out the party tunes to a canal side full of revellers went on to raise more money, taking the fundraising to over £2150 for Core Arts.  The money raised will go towards the Core Sports Department - which supports external trips and activities, giving Core Art's clients experiences in sports such as white water rafting and bouldering which they might not have access to without this support.

Giuliana Molinari,  Deputy Director Core Arts said:
"Core Arts were delighted to be chosen as the beneficiaries of Grow ’s Hackney Half marathon team for the 2nd year in the row.  Well done to all the runners on the day who were amazing . Plus the excellent post event party, entertainment and food. Thank you all for supporting creativity and mental health. " 

We also want to thank the runners, supporters and people who came down to Grow on the day.  We look forward to next year!