climbing higher for a greater purpose

By Debra Brunner

It’s happening!

We said we would take things to a whole new level in 2026, and we meant it. On 4 May, we will be climbing Mount Snowdon in Wales to raise vital funds for our charitable projects.

At 1,085 metres, this is no small challenge. We will set off at 12:30am in complete darkness, aiming to reach the summit by 5am to witness the sunrise. No daylight. Just headtorches, determination, and the hope of standing at the top as the sun rises over the mountains. This is something I have never done before, which makes it both exciting and daunting. Here’s hoping for a clear night because Snowdonia National Park (also known in Welsh as Eryri) is officially designated an International Dark Sky Reserve. This status was awarded in 2015 by the International Dark-Sky Association, recognising the area’s exceptional quality of night skies and the efforts made to reduce light pollution and protect darkness for stargazing, wildlife, science, and enjoyment. Yes we do plan to reach for the stars!!

So training starts now. An eight week programme lies ahead and I am already scouting hills across London to prepare. From Muswell Hill to Parliament Hill and Highgate Hill, we will be tackling them all as we build strength and stamina for the big day.

We are climbing in support of our vital work:

Sending humanitarian aid to vulnerable individuals and families in Belarus

Continuing the development of Making History Together, an innovative Holocaust education and character development programme helping young people in the UK and Belarus learn powerful lessons in responsibility, critical thinking, resilience and moral courage

Providing ongoing support to Jewish and non-Jewish communities in Belarus, including people with special needs and families facing hardship

Click on the images to enlarge them

The Together Plan focuses its efforts where help is truly needed, working closely with communities to preserve Jewish heritage, provide practical support, and build stronger futures for the next generation.

This night climb will be physically demanding and mentally challenging, especially for me as a first timer. But it feels small compared to the daily challenges faced by the people the charity supports. That is why fundraising is so important. Everything we raise helps sustain and grow this essential work.

If you are able to donate, whatever the amount, you will be helping to make a real and lasting difference – every pound, penny, dollar and cent counts!

You can sponsor me by clicking here

or if you are in the USA – I also have an American sponsor page where I am fundraising via our sister non-profit Jewish Tapestry Project – click here

We have a really great group already registered to do the challenge – including two supporters flying in from the USA! So why not join us and take on the challenge together? Click here to register.

Let’s do this…and thank you!!!