Volunteers set to ‘hack’ charity challenge

Already dedicating time to volunteer with the children’s charity, both women feel that taking on this year’s Hike Against Cruelty to Kids (HACK) on 15 September, offers them a great way to do even more for the local children’s charity.

Paula Coyle, a Community Support Worker for Muscular Dystrophy Ireland from Newtowncunningham, is a vocal supporter or NSPCC’s work:

“I volunteer as a counsellor for ChildLine, so I witness first-hand the value of this unbelievable service, and what it means to the children and young people who use it. The NSPCC are giving children a voice and providing practical services, and I am privileged to be able to contribute any small amount to their fantastic work.”

Paula previously conquered the NSPCC HACK, and is raring to do so again:

Describing her training regime, she said: “I started running about three months ago and two months ago took up Hot Yoga, so I’m building on my fitness in general. The hike is tough in places and to endure it it’s necessary to do a bit of training, so it is more fun than hard work. I’m really enjoying trying to get fit and feeling the benefits - I can’t imagine not being out running now.

“The HACK is a challenge but it is also fun and the views on the hike itself are breathtaking. You don’t have to be super fit or a keen hiker to take part, especially as this year has two options of a 20 mile or 14 mile challenge, so it appeals to all. Gather up some friends, go for an amazing hike and raise some money for NSPCC in the process. Go on, take the challenge and change some lives!”

Siobhan McAuley, a care assistant in a nursing home and final-year psychology student from Burt, also expressed her commitment to supporting the “marvellous” work being done locally.

“The safety and wellbeing of children and young people is something I feel very strongly about. It’s not until you volunteer with ChildLine that you realise the extent of the suffering of some of those who contact us. Children and young people are vulnerable and need to know they have somewhere to turn for support when in a crisis, or when even just wanting to have a chat.”

Stepping up to the plate for the 2012 challenge walk, Siobhan – an ‘outdoorsy’ person by nature - urged others to get involved: “This is a great way to raise some funds for the NSPCC, and it’s my aim to complete the challenge and have the craic with like minded people with the same aim!”

The HACK is open to people aged 18 years and over. The registration fee is £20 for the 20 mile challenge and £10 for 14 mile challenge. For further details and online registrations and payments, please log on to www.nspcc.org.uk/mourneshack or contact the Northern Ireland NSPCC fundraising office on 028 90 351135. Final registration date is 30 August 2012.

To make a donation of £4 to the NSPCC/ChildLine, text NIChild to 70744.