Races raise over £6k for children in Kenya and north-east Scotland – Aberdeen Business News

ABERDEEN-based charity, Gathimba Edwards Foundation (GEF), is thrilled to announce the success of its 2024 Safari Series, a series of 3 running races across Aberdeen throughout summer. The races attracted a record-breaking number of participants, volunteers, and funds raised. This year’s races, licensed by Scottish Athletics, attracted 340 runners and 102 volunteers across three different distances, contributing an outstanding £6,075 for disadvantaged children in Kenya and north-east Scotland.

The funds raised during the 2024 Safari Series will be used to support education fees for children in Kenya, and equipment for disabled children in north east Scotland.

The popular Mel’s Union Street Mile race, hosted on the same day as the Celebrate Aberdeen parade, saw 152 runners and 37 volunteers come together to raise an impressive £2,562 for GEF. Originally held at Aberdeen Sports Village (ASV), Mel’s Mile found its new home on Union Street thanks to the support of Celebrate Aberdeen. This change has allowed runners of many ages and abilities the rare opportunity to run down Aberdeen’s main street. 

GEF Founder, Myles Edwards, said: “We are overwhelmed by the incredible support for this year’s Safari Series, and we are very grateful to all sponsors, volunteers, runners and the local community for making this year’s races such a success. GEF would also like to express a huge thanks to Celebrate Aberdeen for including our Mel’s Mile race for the 3^nd year. It means a lot to be part of this major city event.”

GEF is excited to announce that planning for the 2025 Safari Series is already underway and are inviting runners and supporters to sign up to their monthly newsletter to be the first to hear about next year’s race dates and opportunities to get involved.

GEF’s vision is to build a brighter future and improve the quality of life for children and their families in Kenya and north east Scotland.

For more information about the charity and opportunities to be part of future house building trips or volunteering opportunities go to https://gathimbaedwardsfoundation.org/