The Archie Foundation has opened sign ups for its annual Marathon March fundraiser across the Highlands this month, inviting people of all ages and abilities to take part in the popular charity challenge.
The campaign encourages participants to move a mile every day throughout March wherever they are, building towards an ultra marathon distance by the end of the month.
From seasoned runners to families enjoying a gentle stroll, and from wheelchair users to swimmers, the challenge is designed to be inclusive and flexible so everyone can take part in their own way.
All funds raised will support babies, children and families across the north of Scotland, including those receiving care at the Highland Children’s Unit at Raigmore Hospital and throughout the wider Highlands and Islands.
Neil McGregor, Archie’s Business Development and Fundraising Manager for the Highlands, said the charity is looking forward to another strong community response.
“We’re really excited to launch this year’s appeal for our Marathon March Fundraiser and you can get involved at any point during the month.”
“There’s nothing more heartwarming than watching our supporters come together to take part in such an important cause for all the babies, children, and families we support.
“Marathon March is one of our most popular community fundraisers because it’s simple, flexible and brings people together for a shared purpose.
“With the rising demand for our services across the area, whether that’s financial or emotional support for children and families who are going through a difficult time, fundraising events like Marathon March are more important than ever.”
For 25 years, Archie has backed children and families facing some of the most challenging moments of their lives, funding specialist roles and projects at Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital and more recently extending its support to the Highland Children’s Unit, Tayside Children’s Hospital and Dr Gray’s Hospital in Elgin.
That support can mean practical help on the ward, financial assistance when families are travelling long distances for treatment, or emotional backing during times that would test anyone.
In communities spread across vast geography, that kind of presence matters more than ever.
Marathon March has grown into one of the charity’s best loved initiatives because it is simple, achievable and rooted in community spirit rather than elite performance.
It is not about speed or distance records.
It is about steady, daily effort for children who often face far greater challenges than a mile a day.
Participants can sign up online and begin at any point during March, making it accessible to those who decide late or who simply want to test themselves for part of the month.
At its heart, Marathon March is a reminder that small daily actions, multiplied across a region, can deliver life changing impact for families who need it most.
Participants can take the first step by clicking here to sign up
For more information about the practical, financial and emotional support available from The Archie Foundation click here
