Nottinghamshire
Festivals and fundraising, Fundraising and awareness
Climbing for a cause: Glenn’s 24-hour 3 Peaks challenge
This September, Freemason Glenn from Elliott Lodge in Mansfield will take on one of the UK’s toughest endurance challenges – climbing the National Three Peaks of Snowdon, Scafell Pike, and Ben Nevis – all within just 24 hours. He’s doing it to raise funds for the Nottinghamshire 2029 Festival in aid of the Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF, the Freemasons’ charity), a cause that’s close to his heart.
As an active member of his Lodge, Glenn is no stranger to the power of Freemasonry’s charitable work:
People don’t realise that the MCF is there for them too. Even Brethren who’ve been Freemasons for decades sometimes don’t know they can ask for support.
He recalled a time that stood out to him most: a veteran and long-standing member of his Lodge was trying to raise money for medical equipment through JustGiving, unaware that help was available through the MCF. Glenn stepped in, connected him with their PGA, and helped open the door to much-needed support.
“That’s why I’m doing this,” Glenn said. “Yes, it’s about raising money – but it’s also about raising awareness. The MCF supports Freemasons and their families in ways many people don’t even realise.”
The challenge itself is no small feat. Glenn will be walking a total of 36km and ascending over 3,000 metres – the equivalent of climbing up and down nearly seven Eiffel Towers. He began his training in March and is getting in plenty of steps daily to prepare.
This isn’t his first extreme challenge either. Glenn previously cycled from London to Paris in 24 hours – despite not even owning a bike when he signed up. This time, at least, he’s already got the walking boots!
With a personal target of £1,500 and with support already pledged by fellow Brethren, Glenn’s determination is clear. He admitted he’s a little competitive too: “I’d love to raise the most in our Province,” he said.
Glenn’s journey is about showing what Freemasonry can achieve when we come together. “We don’t shout enough about what we do for charity,” Glenn reflected. “But we should. Because the difference we make, to each other, to families, to communities, is real.”
Support Glenn’s challenge and help him spread the word: the MCF is here to help, and with Freemasons like Glenn, we can make a difference.
