A team of four from financial technology specialists Jonas FinTech is stepping outside their comfort zone to take part in the SWA Firewalk in support of Society Without Abuse (SWA).
Barbara Cichacka-Szaj, Danielle Dinmore, Nakita Joseph and Katie Stables will be baring their soles at the SWA Firewalk on 23 October at Swindon Cricket Club as part of Jonas FinTech’s commitment to supporting the charity, one of its Charities of the Year.
The SWA Firewalk aims to raise money to support the vital services that SWA delivers in bringing an end to domestic abuse through education, prevention and early intervention. However, for businesses taking part the challenge also provides an opportunity to build relationships across teams, develop confidence and resilience, and create a shared experience away from the usual working environment.
Barbara Cichacka-Szaj said: “We wanted to do something more hands-on than simply making a donation to SWA, and the SWA Firewalk felt like the perfect challenge. Walking over hot coals for a cause that supports people who really need it felt like a great way to support the charity, and a bit of a challenge for ourselves too.
The Jonas Fintech team members are based in different areas of the country, and so tackling the challenge together has the added bonus of continuing to build relationships within the business too. Barbara continued: “Fundraising together has brought people from different areas of the business together, and there’s something about facing a challenge that is a little bit scary as a team that builds trust very quickly. We’re already talking about it, and I’m sure the photos will give us plenty to talk about afterwards too!
“Most importantly, we want to raise as much as we can for SWA and show our support for the important work they do. I’d really encourage other businesses to consider putting forward a team. It’s a brilliant way to support a local charity while giving your team an experience they can share and enjoy together.”
Jonas FinTech brings together a family of fintech brands that help businesses streamline payments, work more efficiently and deliver better customer experiences. Its brands include London & Zurich, a Direct Debit specialist; paygate, a provider of Bacs payment software; and Power2, which provides automated SMS solutions.
The SWA Firewalk takes place on 23 October at Swindon Cricket Club, County Rd, Swindon SN1 2ED. Food and drink will be available to purchase on the evening and spectators are very welcome with entertainment and games on offer, as well as a Lego walking challenge available to book onto on the evening too.
Firewalkers will be giving full training by a professional firewalker before taking to the coals. Registration for a team of four costs £70, with an aim to raise £95 each in sponsorship. Participants can sign up online at www.societywithoutabuse.org.uk/firewalk.
If you need advice for yourself or a friend relating to domestic abuse, call Swindon’s domestic abuse helpline on 01793 610610 or the 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247.
