MORE than 100 people from across Greater Manchester came together in Ashton-under-Lyne last weekend to take part in a charity 10k.
Participants of all ages gathered at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir with children, adults and older residents walking, jogging and running the route as part of the annual BAPS 10k Charity Challenge.
The event on Sunday, July 12, formed part of a nationwide initiative that sees thousands of people take part in around 20 towns and cities across the UK, promoting healthy lifestyles and community involvement while raising money for charity.
This year’s national charity partner is Samaritans, whose volunteers provide round-the-clock emotional support to people experiencing distress or crisis. Money raised through the challenge will help the organisation continue answering calls, training volunteers and supporting those in need.
Funds will also go towards educational, cultural and spiritual activities organised by BAPS across the UK, supporting children, young people, families and older members of the community.
Among those who took part was Misha Patel, who described the event as a highlight of the year.
She said: “Taking part in the BAPS 10K Charity Challenge is always a highlight of the year. It was a wonderful opportunity to spend time together as a family, keep active and support such an important cause.
“Knowing that our efforts will help Samaritans continue providing life-saving support to people in need made the day even more meaningful.”
The BAPS 10k Charity Challenge has previously raised money for a range of national charities, including Age UK, Alzheimer’s Society, Barnardo’s, British Heart Foundation, Macmillan Cancer Support and the NSPCC.
Sonya Trivedy, Executive Director of External Engagement at Samaritans, attended Sunday’s event and thanked those who took part.
“It was great to see in person how much Samaritans meant to everyone who took part in Sunday’s challenge,” she said. “We’re so grateful for their efforts to raise money for our life-saving service.
“Every donation helps our volunteers continue to be there for anyone in crisis. We look forward to working with BAPS over the next year to continue raising awareness of the life-saving power of human connection and reach more people in need of support.”
Tak Patel, one of the lead volunteers behind the challenge, said the event was inspired by the teachings of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj.
“The BAPS 10K Charity Challenge is inspired by the teachings of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, who encourages us to serve others with compassion, humility and selflessness,” he explained.
“We are delighted to support Samaritans and the remarkable work its volunteers do every day, offering hope and a listening ear to people during some of life’s most difficult moments. It is heartening to see our community come together in support of such an important cause while also making a positive difference to local charities and the wider community.”
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir on Lees Road in Ashton-under-Lyne, which serves the region’s Hindu community, regularly hosts educational, spiritual and community events throughout the year.