We’re proud that a group from Emmaus Village Carlton is taking part in the nationwide ‘Captain Tom 100’ fundraising campaign.

From Friday 30 April to Monday 3 May, eight of our companions and two staff members will be rowing, cycling and running, with an aim to reach over 100 miles.

Their efforts, part of the campaign to celebrate Captain Sir Tom Moore’s amazing achievements, will raise vital funds for Emmaus Village Carlton’s solidarity fund.

Celebrating Captain Tom’s life

Friday 30 April would have been Captain Sir Tom’s 101st birthday and is the one-year anniversary of the extraordinary celebrations that followed the conclusion of his fundraising walk that raised an incredible £38.9 million for the NHS. Following the outpouring of heartfelt messages since Captain Sir Tom’s death on 2 February this year, his family pledged to celebrate his life with an event that everyone around the world could get involved in – the Captain Tom 100.

Support Team Emmaus Village Carlton’s ‘Captain Tom 100’ Challenge

If you visit Emmaus Village Carlton between Friday 30 April and Sunday 2 May, pop over to the area near our Bistro marquee – you might spot one or two of the team on a rowing machine or treadmill, clocking up the miles. They will be taking turns over the four days, getting the miles in. On Bank Holiday Monday, the team will also be off on a bike ride together, to make sure they really reach – and hopefully exceed – that target!

You can sponsor their efforts by donating online or alternatively drop some cash in their buckets on site, if you’re visiting in person this weekend.

What are we raising money for?

Every penny raised will help us, help very worthy local causes through our ‘Solidarity Fund’. ‘Solidarity’ is central to the Emmaus ethos. It’s when our companions (and staff) ‘pay it forward’ by helping other people in need.

The act of solidarity can be very powerful for Emmaus companions as it is often central to rebuilding lost self-esteem, proving that everyone has the capacity to make a difference to the lives of others.

Companions at Emmaus Village Carlton meet regularly to decide how we might best help local charities and individuals who need it most. Each month, our companions decide on a local charity to receive £250. In the past, we’ve supported organisations such as Carlton and Chellington Joint Parish Council, the UK Sepsis Trust and the Huntington’s Disease Association.

Let’s hear from one of the team…

Oscar, one of our companions, is looking forward to this weekend’s challenge:

“Captain Tom has really inspired us to get together and do this. It’s all about getting involved and giving back. And also keeping fit too! We’re all really passionate about our solidarity work, so we hope to raise lots to support it. The more money we raise, the more we can help others.”

We wish the team the very best of luck – and thank you in advance for your support.