Switchback’s donors are the reason we are able to help more than 700 young men each year to live life differently as they prepare to leave prison.
People and organisations who believe in the power of long-term unconditional support make what we do at Switchback possible. Over the years our supporters have fundraised for Switchback through many different challenges, from running a half marathon, choosing us as their charity of the year, cycling from London to Brighton or walking the entire Thames Path!
We are thankful to each and every one of you who donates to these fundraisers, shares it with their networks or goes to support a loved one to cheer them on through the challenge. We wanted to highlight a recent supporter who has run two marathons since the new year to raise funds for Switchback and we feel incredibly inspired by him!
At the end of last year, Darren got in touch with Switchback as he was due to run both the Barcelona and London Marathon six weeks apart and hoping to raise funds for Switchback. We were blown away by his determination to complete such huge challenges so close together whilst supporting our work.
Why Switchback?
“Simply put, the other options didn’t quite cut it for me,” explains Darren. “Your charity instantly struck a chord. While I’ve never experienced incarceration myself, growing up, it felt like a looming possibility, almost an inevitability. I often take for granted the opportunities I’ve been given, and the stability provided by my family, which has kept me grounded.”
Over the past few months Darren has raised an amazing £621 for Switchback and we’re so grateful for his support and determination. Although we couldn’t quite make it to Barcelona, it was fantastic to see him down in London! He absolutely smashed the race and we’re so pleased to have him as part of the Switchback community.
Traditionally, Darren kicks off the year with a European marathon to brighten up the post-Christmas period.
“Diving into some rigorous training regimen, focusing on proper nutrition, sleep, and workouts, injects some much-needed vitality into that time,” he says..
“Recently, I joined Westside Runnas, a spirited running crew based out of Notting Hill. They infuse running with a sense of camaraderie and make it a social affair. I’ve been making an effort to attend their Thursday sessions we nicknamed Rave & Run as often as possible. Those sessions have become a highlight for me, pure vibes with the crew. Interestingly, it’s the Westside Runnas who offered me the chance to run the London Marathon. When they reached out to me, I felt a mix of apprehension and excitement at the prospect of running the race I watch every year from bed, alongside my people’”
Want to get involved?
If you are lucky to get a space in the London Marathon ballot 2025 and fancy fundraising for Switchback, or perhaps you are doing the Hackney half, a sponsored bike ride or something else – please do get in touch and we’d be more than happy to help you with your fundraising or to set up your JustGiving page! Say hello at fundraising@switchback.org.uk
