Walkathons for water

More than 500 people took to the streets of Mijas and Benalmádena this November to take part in the Walkathons for Water, a charitable initiative designed to raise awareness about global water scarcity. The We Are Water Foundation organised the event and was supported by Hilton Grand Vacations managed resorts Los Amigos Beach Club at Pueblo Quinta, Royal Oasis Club and Sahara Sunset. These events were part of a 19-walk series across Europe that included Spain, UK, France Italy, Portugal and Austria.

The third edition of the walks covers a symbolic distance of five kilometres. This represents the distance that millions must cover every day to reach water, which is often unfit for human consumption. Participants of all ages joined the challenge, including over 160 students and teachers from Colegio Mariana Pineda in Benalmádena. Participants also participated in educational workshops to help them better understand how important water is for their health and well-being, and the challenges that communities facing water scarcity face.

Virginia Ledesma said that the beautiful initiative had opened up the hearts and eyes of the students. They now understand that many children live without access to clean water – a reality completely different from their own.” Mercedes Pérez, responsible for the resort’s supermarket, added: “Seeing the children’s joy was moving. The team at the resort, led by Alexandra Barham and dedicated to responsible water use all year round, is impressive.

The initiative served as a fundraiser in addition to raising awareness. More than €2,600 was collected to support projects in Dhone Mandal, Nandyal district, India, and Los Moreneros, Colombia. These projects will help improve the access to sanitation and water services for thousands of people living in these communities.

Carlos Garriga thanked Hilton Grand Vacations and all participants for their commitment. “Thanks everyone involved, you have helped us to create an initiative that will change the lives of thousands of people who do not have access to this vital resource.” The funds raised, and the public awareness generated, reflect both society’s generosity and its determination to create a real impact.

The Walkathons on the Costa del Sol for Water demonstrate how community involvement, education and fundraising can combine to tackle global challenges. Participants and beneficiaries will be left with a lasting effect.