John's fundraiser for The Benjamin Foundation
John Bakewell is raising money for The Benjamin Foundation
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In celebration of The Benjamin Foundation’s 30th anniversary, I will be rowing across the Atlantic Ocean.
Leaving Tenerife in December, I will be at sea for a month and a half, arriving in Antigua in mid-January 2025. Rowing for 12 hours a day, this will be a physically and emotionally challenging battle against huge seas, isolation and sea-sickness.
I have been taking on endurance challenges for 40 years. Whether the London Marathon, walking unsupported through the Scottish highlands for 10 days, cycling 1850 miles across Europe in 9 days, or non-stop from Aberystwyth to Lowestoft, each have had their unique obstacles to overcome. Undoubtedly, this will be the most challenging yet!
Completing these adventures have all been used to raise awareness and much needed support for charitable causes and I have chosen to team up with The Benjamin Foundation, because I hope in some small way that my struggles against the elements and the inevitable moments of doubt, will inspire and encourage young people to overcome adversity, in whatever form, in their own lives.
We are grateful to have the support of Johnny through this Atlantic adventure. This is a great opportunity, not just to raise vital awareness of our work, but make an important, and positive, impact in the lives of young people.
For young people, children and families, The Benjamin Foundation support over 3,000 individuals across Norfolk and Suffolk. Through a range of services focusing on housing & homelessness, emotional wellbeing and training and work skills, they provide stability for at risk young people on their journey to independence.