In the heart of Yorkshire's stunning natural landscape, our team of determined and charitable individuals from Involution took on the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge, driven by a desire to make a difference. Their journey wasn't just about scaling summits but also about supporting The Howarth Foundation, a charity dedicated to helping homeless people and those at risk of homelessness back into employment. The challenge resulted in a remarkable achievement: raising £2,540 for this vital cause.
The Inspiration Behind the Challenge
At Involution, we believe in giving back to the community and the Howarth Foundation's mission resonated deeply with Involution's values. The foundation’s work in aiding vulnerable individuals to rebuild their lives through employment and training programs struck a chord with the team.
Furthermore, one of our very own joined us through The Howarth Foundation, making the charity have a close place in our hearts. We wanted to take on a challenge that would test us not only physically, but mentally and there is no greater challenge than the Yorkshire Three Peaks.
The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge
The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge is not for the faint-hearted. It involves conquering three of the highest peaks in Yorkshire: Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough. This demanding 24-mile trek with an ascent of 5,200 feet must be completed within twelve hours (our team smashed it in under 10).
It tests endurance, determination, and teamwork - qualities we know the Involution team have but 100% displayed on this journey.
Charlotte, our Marketing Manager went on to say: “We had amazing weather with amazing views. The walk was obviously a challenge and we clocked in some serious steps but it was well worth the hardship knowing the fundraising efforts the team have achieved.”
Whilst all three peaks had their challenges, when asked which peak was the toughest the team had split opinions.
One thing, Charlotte mentioned, the full team could agree on was: “the walk to the second peak felt the longest as we all had our eyes on the prize, looking forward to the bacon and egg butties being made by Jon, to keep us all powered. And whilst the clamber up to the peaks was tough, looking down, the views were amazing.
With mostly clear blue skies along the way, the last 3 hours became windier, a bit colder, a bit darker, almost a reflection of how the team felt for the final slog. But with perseverance, more than 66,000 steps later and 24 miles clocked, we made it!”
The Impact of their efforts
We reached out to Andy Howarth to find out how critical the money raised by our team is to the sustainability of the charity.
“The Howarth Foundation (THF) is a totally self-funded registered charity that supports the homeless, the hidden homeless (of which there are over 2,000 in Leeds alone) that includes those who are living with friends or relatives, fleeing domestic violence, sofa surfing, in unsafe or unsuitable accommodation or someone who simply does not have a roof to call their own in Leeds, Calderdale, Kirklees and Bradford.
The Foundation is not commissioned and receives no financial support from any local authorities or central government and relies heavily on local businesses like Involution to organise fundraising events that sit alongside the charity’s own events generating much-needed cash to sustain its existence. All monies raised goes directly to support THF’s running costs, providing travel expenses to clients recently employed and where necessary work clothing. Without the support of organisations like Involution, THF simply could not exist.”
Reflections from the Involution team
Charlotte, Marketing Manager: “From my point of view - it all went so well. The day couldn't have been any better for it, especially as the next day it absolutely poured it down. The overall team effort was phenomenal and the pint at the end, and fundraising total, was worth every step.”
Nathan, Operations Director: “We were kitted out with the best gear for us to complete the challenge against the elements of nature. The Craft t-shirt which was lightweight, quick drying and comfy to wear was DTF printed with all our sponsors on it. It was an eye-catcher to say the least!
And as the weather turned towards the end, we also had the perfect outdoor walking jacket, the Richmond workwear jacket from Craghoppers, providing us with wind and weatherproof protection. The whole team looked brilliant in their Involution branded jacket - it really was the perfect accessory for the walk.”
Looking ahead and future projects
At Involution, we're always committed to doing good for others, and supporting charities, in particular when charity hits close to home for our team members. Inspired by yet another one of many challenges, we continuously look for ways to give back to those who need support. On September 27th, Involution will be doing a bake sale for MacMillan, and on the 13th of October, a fundraiser for Martin House Children’s Hospice. We will provide more details on how you can donate to help us raise an incredible amount of money for these charities.
