New York Marathon 2008

I'll need all the superpowers available to me, but I will be running the New York Marathon this November and I am asking you all for your support.

This is the first time I have ever attempted anything like this and not only is a lifelong ambition (and hugely intimidating) but also a great way to raise some money for three causes that I have had the pleasure of being involved with over the past few years:

1. BCYS / Group 206 (www.bcys.net)

The Brentwood Catholic Youth Service (BCYS) exists to strengthen and inspire young people in their journey of life and faith. Group 206 travel once a year on a pilgrimage to Lourdes and take with them young, handicapped and disadvantaged children. The money raised here will go towards funding the trip, including activities for the week, and i can speak from first hand experience of the impact and inspiration that I have gained from time working with these fabulous people.

2. CAFOD (www.cafod.org.uk)

CAFOD raises funds from the Catholic community in England and Wales, the UK government and the general public.

CAFOD uses these funds to:

• promote long-term development in some of the world’s poorest communities
• respond to emergencies , helping people affected by conflict or natural disaster
• raise awareness of the causes of poverty and help people campaign to bring about change
• speak out on behalf of poor communities , challenging governments and international bodies to promote equality and justice

3. Ellingham Employment Services (www.ellingham.org.uk)

Ellingham is a Charity set up by my parents more than 21 years ago and provide guidance, vocational training and support in employment for people with learning disabilities. From humble beginnings in a small portacabin in the East End of London, they now operate across NE London/Essex, winning many awards for the high standard of service they provide to people with a wide range of learning disabilities and to employers.   They currently support more than 200 people in paid pensionable employment ranging from 1-man businesses to major retailers and government departments, raising public awareness of the abilities of people with disabilities.

*pls note that BCYS are collecting the donations on behalf of all three charities and will distribute the funds accordingly*

I ask that you spare whatever you can afford in order to make a real difference.

****Please also include Gift Aid as this is an extra 28% to your donation for simply ticking a box!!****

If you cannot donate through this page, then please feel free to email/contact me - I am keeping a seperate record of such donations.

Finally, please feel free to distibute this to anyone who would like to get involved with sponsoring.

Thank you for your generosity,

Simon Bailey

Email: bigmanbailey@hotmail.co.uk