Get training for an event which will see teams from every level of construction, from architecture to property sale, completing a marathon distance on foot, bike and kayak around Dorset’s scenic Purbeck Peninsula. Efforts will be rewarded with a well-earned dinner and awards.

Asian tsunami 7th anniversary
December 2011 was the 7th anniversary of the Asian tsunami which sent shock waves through the world when it hit on Boxing Day, 2004. Triggered by one of the most powerful earthquakes ever recorded on a seismograph, the tsunami affected more than a dozen countries. An estimated 250,000 lives were lost and millions were left homeless.

CARE was among the leading humanitarian agencies to respond and has continued to work with affected communities since, to reconstruct homes and livelihoods and promote economic and social development. In sum, CARE reached 1,339,464 people affected by the tsunami in India, Somalia, Sri Lanka and Thailand.

CARE International UK’s Chief Executive, Geoffrey Dennis, recently visited Tamil Nadu in South East India where CARE rebuilt houses for families who had lost everything. The project focused on poor families whose bamboo and wooden houses had been completely destroyed. CARE built robust brick houses in their place. Geoffrey said, “I was pleased to find, almost seven years on, the houses were still in perfect condition. They’re very well kept and are regularly painted by the local families who live in them. I was also impressed to see how CARE has helped communities to become completely self-sufficient by rebuilding livelihoods, for example through crab farming and cashew nut production. This is what long term development is all about.” 

The CARE Construction Challenge is supported by corporate partner Costain Group PLC.

How to take part
Teams of 2, 3 or 4 will be asked to raise £600 per person to support CARE’s vital work. For further information visit www.carechallenge.org.uk/constructionchallenge or call the CARE Challenge Team on 020 7091 6111.