DG’s Challenge lifts the YMCA
Deputy Governor Franz Manderson with the cheque for the YMCA
(CNS Local Life): The 2017 DG’s 5K Challenge raised $85,000 for the YMCA of the Cayman Islands, $25,000 more than the goal Deputy Governor Franz Manderson set for the event, which was held in April. In announcing the total collected, he said, “I am delighted we raised such a huge sum of money for such a tremendous cause. The YMCA does great work with the youth in our community and I am very happy that we are able to support them with a donation that has exceeded all our expectations.”
Manderson revealed the amount of funds raised during a 6 June reception at Government House to thank the event’s sponsors, organising committee and volunteers.
The money will be used to build a ropes challenge course in Grand Cayman, which will provide an alternative to classroom-style learning in areas proven to increase self-esteem, confidence and team-building skills.
This facility will offer participants practical examples of ways to improve communication, awareness of themselves and others, and to gain leadership skills. In addition, the course will allow those taking part to overcome fears, insecurities, depression, and anti-social behaviour.
Almost 2,000 walkers and runners took part in this year’s DG’s 5K Challenge, comprising events in Cayman Brac and Grand Cayman.
“This is the best event since we launched in 2013 and I give sincere thanks to all who helped make it a success,” Manderson said. “As I keep reminding everyone, it is easy to talk about the problems we face but much more productive and uplifting to be a part of the solution. As well as helping good causes in the community, participants also boost their own health by taking part.”
During the reception, Manderson presented the cheque to YMCA chairman Andrew Johnson, who said, “We are extremely grateful for this major donation to help build the challenge course that will benefit young people and others in the community. We are honoured to have been chosen as this year’s beneficiary and extend our gratitude to Deputy Governor and all his team who organised the event.”
Dates for next year’s DG’s 5K Challenge have already been set – 16 April on Cayman Brac, 22 April on Little Cayman and 29 April on Grand Cayman.
Category: Donations, Running, Service Organisations
I agree my favorite 5k of the year. I’m so proud that Cayman came together for this great cause.
Congrats DG.
I took part in the 5k. It was a truly rewarding experience. It really brought everyone together for a great cause.
I can’t imagine the negative posters will complain about this.