Pedalling Purpose: Rapport’s Epic London to Dublin Charity Cycle Challenge
We are thrilled to announce our upcoming charity cycling event, where our dedicated team will pedal from West Lea School in London to the Down Syndrome Ireland office in Dublin. This journey represents our deep commitment to supporting two exceptional organisations that embody our values of care, community, and excellence.
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Covering 600 kilometres, our team is driven by the spirit of generosity and the heartfelt desire to make a meaningful impact. The funds raised will directly benefit the students of West Lea School, enhancing their educational experiences, and support Down Syndrome Ireland in providing vital services to individuals and families.
Commitment from the Top:
Dirk Talsma Joins the Cause
Cycle to Inspire was officially launched by Dirk Talsma, Managing Director at Rapport, at the Rapport Excellence Awards in April 2024. During the launch, Dirk announced that he would participate in the challenge if a main sponsor was secured by the end of the night. In an exciting turn of events, a sponsor stepped forward immediately, confirming Dirk’s participation.
Matt Thomas, CEO of Restaurant Associates Group, will also be joining the team on this monumental ride. This team includes Front-Of-House staff, Team Leaders, Managers, And Managing Directors, all united by a common goal to support these incredible causes.
Join us on this journey and help us make a difference. Together, we can pedal towards a brighter future.
“Despite my Dutch heritage, I do not cycle frequently. In fact, you would typically only catch me covering short distances on an electric Lime Bike in London.
Therefore, I was not planning on joining this challenge but instead was planning to support and cheer on our very brave Rapport Cycling Champions. However, when a very generous member of the audience offered £5,000 in sponsorship, in exchange for my participation, I had to admit defeat.
I have since purchased an endurance road bike, along with all the other equipment and reluctantly, commenced training. I hope that this cycle from London to Dublin, and the money that we raise will bring positive, lasting change to the lives of those we support.”
Dirk Talsma, Managing Director
Meet some of our cycling champions
Leanne
Joao
Roxana
About our charity partners
Down Syndrome Ireland
A lens of positivity that focuses on the benefits a more inclusive society brings to both people with Down syndrome and the country as a whole.
Down Syndrome Ireland offers information, practical help and support. Most of all, they are a community of people who share the same journey.
Rapport supports Down Syndrome Ireland with their Employability Programme, supporting their young people with work experience and getting into meaningful careers.
West Lea School
Catering for students aged 4 to 19 with special educational needs and disabilities, their four campuses – Meridian, Haselbury, Learning for Life and Horizon – equip children with a ‘suitcase’ of skills to help them flourish.
Their Supported Internship is a one-year full time study programme for 16 – 24 year olds who have a Statement for Special Educational Needs or an Education and Health Care Plan. It includes an extended work placement with a local employer and provides access to a job for young people who want to work, but need a little extra support to do so.
About Rapport
Launched in 2012, Rapport is an award-winning, specialist company that provides corporate organisations with a range of fully managed front of house and back of house guest services. They provide services in all major cities in UK & Ireland, also globally with a strong presence in North America, Canada, Denmark, Switzerland, Australia, and Hong Kong.
The company’s fully managed offer includes reception, concierge, client meeting room management, community manager, workspace and floor coordination, switchboard and other call services. Rapport’s ambassadors create rapport with clients and their guests from the outset, leaving them with the perfect impression every time.
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