Forrest Gump did it, although not for charity, so perhaps 31-year-old James Crossland can run and run and run. Well, that’s what the man who lives in Manchester plans to do. From June 8 to 18, 2012, Crossland will be running in an effort to raise money for the Manchester United Foundation that helps finance both the Christie Charity and Francis House Children’s Hospice in the city as well as Irish Autism Action – a support network for families whose kids have autism.
To add a bit of stardom to this endeavor, ex-United player Clayton Blackmore will join the team at different points during the challenge as well. But apart from being a strong runner, Crossland has to be quite the fundraiser since he needs to pay a £150 entrance fee and thereafter raise at least £1,500, which will be put toward the charity. While he realizes it will be tough, he is excited to be doing his bit for charity and has thus already become involved in a grueling training regime.
Come On You R-E-D-S
But it doesn’t stop there for the Red Devils. The MU charitable foundation has teamed up with Football Aid, letting football grace its turf and play in mid-May, in an effort to raise money for charity. On May 17, 2012, fans will be able to enjoy a “match of the day” experience at Old Trafford. They will be able to get on to the pitch and tunnel areas, clad out in their very own United shirts (with their names on) in the team’s official changing rooms, walk down the tunnel to the sound of a cheering crowd as they’ve no doubt watched so many times from a TV screen and then walk out onto the turf to represent their club in and “never to be forgotten 90 minutes of football.”
Football Aid
It’s simple to be a part of this fun charitable endeavor by logging on to Football Aid’s website and selecting your favorite team. Positions are available for immediate purchase and thereafter, for bidding. Two years ago, Football Aid celebrated a decade of hard work and dedication to its cause. To date, the organization has enabled more than 12,225 football fans to participate in over 460 games. They provide funds by hosting a yearly football match at famous stadiums throughout the UK. This all started with Craig Paterson’s idea (chair of Football Aid) and funds are used to benefit a charity nominated by the club as well as projects nominated by Field of Dreams, the parent charity of Football Aid.