L-R: Elysa Cooper, Community and Events Fundraising Officer at Breast Cancer Haven and Mark Hollis, Head of Operations at National Express
A runner has received a £250 boost to his fundraising efforts for a local cancer charity thanks to National Express.
The UK’s largest coach operator has supported the fundraising efforts of senior manager, Mark Hollis, who ran the Cheltenham Half Marathon for Solihull based Breast Cancer Haven, after hearing of his close friend’s battle with the disease.Mark, Head of Operations at National Express’ Birmingham head office, submitted an application for the extra funding from the company’s employee charity panel in a bid to maximise his fundraising.
“I was devastated to find out that someone so close to me had breast cancer. Kate became aware of her local Breast Cancer Haven drop-in clinic as part of her treatment and I have seen how magnificently they have supported people locally through tough times, so I decided to raise money to help them help others.
“After raising £500 in sponsorship myself, I was really pleased the business chose to support my efforts and generously donate an additional £250 to my nominated clinic.”
The National Express Employee Charity Panel supports employees’ efforts in their own fundraising and volunteering work outside of the organisation. The Charity Panel itself is made up of staff from across the National Express businesses who meet quarterly to review their peers’ applications.
Since it was launched in 2009 the panel has awarded over £129,863 to charities and groups supported by employees throughout the UK.
Elysa Cooper, Community and Events Fundraising Officer at Breast Cancer Haven West Midlands, said: “We are so grateful for the support we’ve received from Mark. Not only has he raised a fabulous amount of money but by running as part of ‘Team Haven’, Mark has also raised vital awareness of the charity and the support we offer for local people affected by breast cancer.
“A half marathon is quite a challenge to take on and I can’t thank Mark enough for choosing to support Breast Cancer Haven, West Midlands.”
