Bermuda End-to-End launches 20th anniversary

Celebrating 20 years of funraising
The Bermuda End-to-End kicked off its 20th anniversary event today, unveiling the five charities to benefit from funds raised in this year’s event, and launching its 13-week “Get Ready-Get Fit” programme for those taking part in the May 5 fitness challenge.
“Bermuda End-to-End ranks as Bermuda’s largest charity event, with more than 2,000 people walking, swimming, rowing, paddling, cycling or otherwise making their way across the Island in a one-day blitz to raise money for local good works,” said End-to-End chair Anne Mello. “We have come a long way from three people who, 20 years ago, walked from one end of the island to the other on a wager.”
“With people of every age and background taking part in this event, we believe this is the most inclusive fund-raising effort on the island,” she added. “Everyone – from the volunteer board of directors who organizes the event, the sponsors backing it, the participants and those who sign pledge forms to support them – is an important part of team working to benefit local charities.”
This island-wide effort now raises more than $200,000 in pledges each year, which are each year distributed to local charities. This year, the five charities are: Bermuda Autism Support and Education Society; Open Airways; Meals on Wheels; Raleigh International; and Keep Bermuda Beautiful.
“Our theme this year is wellness,” explained Mrs. Mello. “The five charities all support the well-being of people in Bermuda, whether it is individuals living with specific medical conditions, those unable to prepare meals for themselves, at-risk young people who, with intervention, could become an asset to the community as a whole, and the community at large who will benefit from a cleaner environment.”
Longtime Premier sponsors Bank of Bermuda Foundation and M3 Wireless are once again on board with the End-to-End:
"We are looking forward to our 10th year supporting this great event that encourages community participation, raises funds for worthwhile charities and promotes wellness" said Lloyd Fray, CEO of M3 Wireless. "We are proud to support the End-to-End as a premier corporate sponsor for 2007 and congratulates the organization on 20 years of giving to the community."
"Bank of Bermuda Foundation is delighted to once again sponsor the 20th annual Bermuda End to End. Not only does this event bring together a large cross section of the community, but the funds raised will go to charities whose efforts benefit the entire community with a focus on health, education, youth development, the elderly and the environment. Last year’s Youth Invasion was particularly successful in attracting younger participants and we are pleased this is continuing this year with a focus on school spirit. The Foundation is committed to supporting charitable initiatives in Bermuda and we will continue to support and encourage our young people to get involved in their community and to learn and appreciate the aspects of charitable giving, healthy lifestyles and teamwork. The Bermuda End to End combines all these elements in a fun atmosphere in which everyone can get involved. I hope that even more people are encouraged this year on the 20th anniversary to pull out their walking shoes and get active for the health of Bermuda as a community" said Jeanne Atherden of the Bank of Bermuda Foundation.
To ensure the well-being of the event participants, the End-to-End also unveiled “Get Ready-Get Fit,” a 13-week training programme that begins February 4. Participants are encouraged to use the fitness guide to create their own, personalised training schedule to put them in top form for the event.
Copies of “Get Ready-Get Fit” will be available at many locations, including HSBC, M3 Wireless, family physicians, and sporting goods shops. It can also be downloaded here.
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