Vida is to launch its own ‘Alternative Marathon’ charity drive in aid of homelessness charity Crisis.

This is the second fundraising event the lender has undertaken to raise money for the charity since partnering in 2020.

The event will involve employees at all levels, including Vida’s leadership team, taking part in a variety of activities, such as a 2.6-mile sky dive and mixed marathon relay, while CEO Anth Mooney will be walking a half marathon with his dog Walter.

This fundraising effort is part of a wider commitment Vida has made to Crisis. The specialist lender has pledged to donate at least £150,000 to Crisis across three years, while a circle of charity champions in the business will seek to inspire employees, intermediary partners, and customers to take action to help end homelessness across the UK.

Mooney said: “The Vida Alternative Marathon was inspired by the London Marathon, as arguably the biggest charity fundraising event in the world. We wanted to replicate this in some small way, with a twist that embodies our company values of vision, inclusiveness, dynamism and authenticity. The aim was to bring people together after a tough 18 months, in support of our charity partner Crisis, in a way that is open to everyone regardless of interests, ability or location.

At Vida we believe no-one should be forced into homelessness. I’m very grateful to all my colleagues who are taking part, or supporting, our first Alternative Marathon. I know I speak for everyone at Vida when I say we are delighted to be partnered with Crisis to assist the fantastic work they do to change people’s lives for the better.”

Richard Lee, head of fundraising at Crisis, added: “We are so pleased to be working with Vida and support their efforts in raising vital funds with the Alternative Marathon. The past year has been incredibly tough for everyone and having somewhere safe and secure to call home has never been more important. With Vida’s help, we can support people and help them find a path out of homelessness for good.”