UPDATE:

Both of us managed to swim the full 10 km today (28th June). Sid took 5 hours 27 minutes and Kempe took 5 hours 39 minutes. It was incredibly painful but a great experience. Thank you all so much for your generous support! Donations can still be made on this page for the next three months. Thank you all again and please give generously.

Kempe and Sid

Hello everyone!

We, Sid Agarwal and Kempe Brydges, are planning to swim 10 kilometres each in support of Opportunity International on the 28th June.
 
We want to raise money for Opportunity International because it enables people to pull themselves out of poverty without engendering dependence on donations. It is a charity which provides loans and training to people living in poverty in the developing world.
Opportunity’s services can make a huge difference for beneficiaries: “Clients use these financial services to start or expand a business, provide for their families, create jobs for their neighbours and build a safety net for the future.” For many, this is their only chance of a better life.
Opportunity has the highest possible rating from Charity Navigator, the respected and impartial charity ranking organization; it spends nearly 90% of its income on programs, with 8% going to fundraising and only 3% to administration. Opportunity also aims to make a significant impact on gender equality in the developing world, since most of the beneficiaries are women.  Opportunity’s goal is to help 100 million people work their way out of poverty by 2015.

The swim will be a tough challenge for both of us – it amounts to some 400 lengths in the pool each! Any support will make the effort worthwhile, and will make a lasting difference to people who are desperately in need.

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor us: Opportunity International gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving ensures that 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.

We hope to raise £2000 in sponsorship by 1st July. Many thanks in advance for your support!

Sid and Kempe