Tees Valley companies, schools and organisations have been challenged to put their business and fundraising skills to the test by helping to turn £50 into £50,000 in the name of charity.
The Evolution Corporate Challenge 2011 will see crisp £50 notes handed out to any groups in the region that believe they have what it takes to turn this into as much money as possible within three months.
The aim is to at least double the cash, through any legal and ethical means possible, with the funds then being donated to North East charities: Zoë’s Place Baby Hospice, St Teresa’s Hospice and the Hartlepool and District Hospice.
The third annual challenge, which is run by North East accountancy firm Evolution LLP (formerly the North East offices of Vantis Plc), is expected to break a new fundraising record this year as more and more organisations from across Tees Valley get involved.
After raising £33,000 in 2009 and £33,700 in 2010, organisers are targeting a £50,000 total this year as they look to provide huge support to three deserving hospices that are so important to the lives of vulnerable people in the region.
Evolution LLP will hand out the £50 notes at the Corporate Challenge launch party on 30 March, Client Partner Ray Priestman is hoping that some of the inspirational fundraising activity from 2010 will be emulated this year.
He said: “The Evolution Corporate Challenge is open to companies, organisations and schools of all sizes, and this is probably the only time they will have the chance to take £50 from a firm of accountants.
“After witnessing the innovation and entrepreneurship on show by last year’s challengers, I’m really looking forward to welcoming even more entrants this year to support such a deserving cause as our hospices.”
The challenge will officially be launched on 30 March at Wynyard Hall.
Amongst the winners last year were Cornerstone Business Solutions, from Stockton, who were recognised for their enthusiasm, dedication and commitment during the challenge and were awarded the 2010 Special Judges Award.
Account manager Chris Bibby said: “We are already busy hatching plans for new fundraising ideas to help raise even more for the charities this year, it is great fun – everyone in the Tees Valley area should get involved!”
Meanwhile, Nunthorpe School in Middlesbrough, who scooped two awards in the 2010 challenge, are keen to get involved again. The students and teachers raised an amazing £5,438 in just three months.
Will Bailey, Pastoral Director of Learning at the school, said: “It never ceases to amaze us just how keen, hardworking and dedicated the pupils are with their ideas and participation in the fundraising for the Corporate Challenge.
“We are very proud of them and our achievements in the last two challenges, and hope this year we can smash last year’s amount and raise even more for the three charities”
For more information please visit: www.evolutionllp.com or contact Emily Bentley at emily.bentley@evolutionllp.com
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