When I first ran a half marathon back in 2005, I knew I wanted to train to ultimately go for the full 26.2 mile distance. With a decent running frame and above average stamina, I knew I was capable.

Never one to get things done in a hurry, I put off the challenge for ten years.

Now, with a strong sense of motivation and an emboldened sense of self-belief, I have finally confronted my fears. A big step. Worthy of doing in the name of a cause I care about, I suppose. And with more than 1 billion people in the world still living on less than $1.25 per day, I have chosen to support poverty eradication.

This is a cause that needs volunteer teachers for its classrooms and construction workers for its housing. It needs volunteer healthcare workers to eradicate disease and infrastructure programmes to supply clean water. We all know about these groups, and they do a fantastic job. But we are missing a key player.

You see, the world also needs to make sure that every effort makes its mark. And for that, you need evidence of development. Did the volunteer teachers actually improve exam pass rates? Was the new housing up to standards? Has the vaccination programme reduced disease outbreaks? 

You need evidence gatherers. Evaluators. Advisors. 

In short, you need groups like Evidence For Development.

So this is a chance to support a cause that doesn't just make a difference. 

It's a cause that makes sure that difference is really made.