‘50/50 Challenge’ for Special Needs Foundation of Cayman

With the support of the Special Needs Foundation of Cayman (SNFC) and the Rotary Clubs of Grand Cayman and Grand Cayman Central, 66 years old veteran runner Derek Haines is to run the Cayman Marathon in December, 2015 in order to raise $50,000 towards four projects for the SNFC.

The challenge is called 50/50 as it is hoped to recruit 50 runners in support of the fundraising run. Derek said, “It is not necessary for the runners to raise any money, just to take part in the marathon, half marathon or the relay on the day. Youngsters in the children’s race can also join in. Obviously it will be great if they can raise funds but raising awareness is very important too.”

As in previous years Rotary Club treasurer Chris Johnson is opening a dedicated bank account to accommodate donations towards the appeal. Chris said,’ As always, every dollar that is donated will go to the charity. There will be no administrative costs or other expenses paid from it and I think this is very important for donors to understand.”

SNFC Executive Leader Susie Bodden is very excited about the fundraiser and said, “We are delighted that Derek has agreed to lead the charge. The funds will be used for our Respite Care programme, Equine Therapy, Family Support and a Sports and Leisure Club. The SNFC is a not for profit organisation dedicated to supporting children with a range of special needs across the Cayman Islands.”

Derek, whose marathon appeals in the past 5 years have raised almost $2,000,000 for local charities, including well over $1 million for a Hospice building last year, went on to say, “Folks and companies have been very generous with their support over the years and I am very grateful to all of them. By working together and supporting this challenge we can make life so much better for those in need.”

Letter from SNFC

The Special Needs Foundation is delighted that Mr Derek Haines has agreed to take part in our 50/50 challenge to raise funds for our charity.

The Special Needs Foundation of Cayman is a non-profit organization of parents, educators and professionals committed to supporting children with a range of special needs across the Cayman Islands. We are dedicated to the development and provision of appropriate and comprehensive support services.

Through the 50/50 Campaign we intend to raise $50,000 towards four of our most successful programmes, namely the:

• Respite Care Programme $10,000
• Equine Therapy Scholarship Programme $15,000
• Family Support Programme $10,000
• Sports & Leisure Club $15,000

The philosophy of the 50/50 platform was built on the “collective capacity of a group of passionate people to create influence in our community.” In the case of 50/50, it is the power and endless capabilities of 50 super heroes who are committed to joining forces in a number of creative ways to make a significant impact to the lives of individuals with Special Needs and their families.

On the 6th of December 2015, 50 committed runners or ‘super heroes’ will line the streets of George Town ready to take part in a movement that will widen the scope of services available to those with special needs in our community. As you will undoubtedly be aware, Mr Haines has proven to be the most committed charity runner of the Cayman Islands and the Special Needs Foundation are excited that he has agreed to join us.

As a non-profit charity we gain all our funds from donations; all monies received go towards services for children and their families. No expenses or admin fees are taken.

We do hope that you will consider sponsoring Mr Haines as one of our 50 ‘super heroes’ as he tries to support the special needs community.

Kind regards

Susie Bodden
Executive Leader – The Special Needs Foundation of Cayman