COPE FOUNDATION LAUNCH 300,000 STEPS CHALLENGE
5 x Olympian Rob Heffernan throws his support behind the Cork disabilities organisation
Cope Foundation has announced its 300,000 Steps Challenge for February. Families, communities and businesses are encouraged to help the Cork disabilities organisation complete the fundraising challenge. Participants will commit to reaching the 300,000 steps target in the 28 days of February to stay healthy, motivated and focused.
This year's initiative is proudly supported by EY and Olympian, Rob Heffernan, will join the team to offer support and motivation to participants.
The campaign offers people a great way to stay active and moving throughout February – which is especially important now that most of us are spending our days in front of a screen. The easiest way to count and keep track of your steps is by using an app on your phone or your wearable activity tracker.
Pre-COVID, Cope Foundation required an increase in annual funding to meet the rapidly growing demands of its service. At that time, 400 children were waiting for an autism spectrum disorder assessment, while 1,350 others were awaiting specialist intervention. The ongoing restrictions caused by Covid-19 means that almost all of Cope Foundation's services have been significantly reduced and Cope Foundation is concerned about the impact this is having on people and their families.
Sean Abbott Chief Executive at Cope Foundation says, "Cope Foundation is one of the largest providers of services and supports to people with intellectual disabilities and/or autism in Ireland. It is so important for us to continue to look at ways to continue our work. We are committed to doing everything we can to be there for people who need us. We are delighted to work with EY’s team as part of our 300,000 Steps fundraiser. They share our vision of inclusion and building a better world and workplace by maximising the power of all differences."
Olympian Rob Heffernan, from Togher, says "Cope Foundation does fantastic work, and I am delighted to offer my support this year through fundraising efforts. Anything that gets you moving is a positive thing".
Ivan O'Brien, EY Consulting Partner and Head of Risk and Mental Health Advocate added, "At EY we recognise that charities like Cope Foundation have been hit hard by COVID and need our support more than ever, so we're delighted to support the #StepsForChange initiative. Movement and exercise are so important to our mental health and wellbeing and can help lift spirits as each of us face our own unique set of challenges in the midst of a pandemic. We're excited to take part in the challenge along with all of our EY employees and would encourage anyone and everyone to do it too."
All funds raised will go towards projects and programmes that empower and support people with intellectual disabilities and/or autism across Cork city and county.
You can register for the 300,000 Steps Challenge here: https://www.cope-foundation.ie/februarychallenge.
#StepsForChange