Havering & Brentwood Counselling Services is proud, once again, to be fielding a team for the Brentwood Half Marathon and Fun Run in March.
And we’re on the look out for people who want to support the communities of Brentwood and Havering by taking part in either race for our charity.
Events such as this provide vital fundraising for HBBS through sponsorship generated by those taking part and all of this is used to support the crucial counselling we offer to primary secondary school children across our area.
These services help hundreds of young people each year who are struggling with the loss of a parent or relative.
Katy O’Keefe, the Events and Fundraising Officer at HBBS organises all fundraising events for the cause and is currently heading up recruitment for the races on March 17th.
“The money that is raised at the Brentwood Half Marathon is used for our primary and secondary school counselling services within the local community, this is offered in their own school setting or in the privacy of our counselling rooms in Brentwood and Hornchurch,” she revealed.
“Last year we were able to deliver nearly 3000 sessions as a result of our fundraising efforts and the generous donations from people.
“These children will have suffered a close personal bereavement of a close family member, friend or loved one and we provide the safe and confidential environment for them to get the vital services we provide.”
Putting their money where their mouths are, the O’Keefe family will be taking part in the Fun Run this year and Katy is willing others to join them in support of HBBS.
She said: “The Brentwood Half Marathon is a lovely setting for this event as the route takes you through a number of quaint villages and the atmosphere is very encouraging.
“The fun run is a two-point-nine mile run fit for all the family over eight years old.
“This year my husband will be taking part with my young daughters, whilst I will be looking after our team of runners back at our base with refreshments and secure baggage storage.”
Katy’s other responsibilities at the charity include organising the KiiT Club (Kids In It Together) for children (and siblings) who have been through the counselling service which offers a variety of different social events for them to enjoy which is funded by grants and private donations.
Katy added: “If you would like to join the Havering & Brentwood Bereavement Service team for the Brentwood Half Marathon and Fun Run, you'll be running to make a big difference to other peoples' lives across the area.
“We're looking for as many runners as possible to join us on 13.2 mile course across Brentwood & the surrounding villages.”
If you'd like to become part of our #HBBS Half Marathon team all you have to do is click on the link below to register your entry, then just let us know and we will arrange everything else for you.
Please note: You do not need to pay for a t-shirt when you enter via this website as we'll provide you with this.
To sign up for the 2.9 mile Fun Run simply click on the link above & go to 'Fun Run Entry'. Again, we will provide you with a t-shirt.
*ENTRIES CLOSE ON 8TH MARCH 2019*
Once you have completed your online entry please email katy.okeefe@hbbscounselling.org & you'll be sent an HBBS registration form.