Active Chartered Financial Planners

Well-known Teesside business leader and managing director of Active Chartered Financial Planners, Karl Pemberton, has signed up to ‘co-pilot’ for local entrepreneur Mike Racz, on his mercy-mission to Ukraine.

Launched in late 2023, Mike’s campaign will see vital aid collected in Teesside and delivered personally to those suffering from the repercussions of the illegal invasion of Ukraine. Originally planned as a solo-mission, Mike will now be supported by his longstanding friend, Karl, who has agreed to be his wingman on the 3000-mile roundtrip.

Later this month, the duo will hit the road in a transit van, heading to war-torn Ukraine with a cargo of essentials. They are also hoping to collect enough donations, either directly or through cash contributions, to fill a 40-tonne articulated lorry, which will follow them.

The mission is personal for Mike, whose partner Kateryna comes from Kryvyi Rih in central Ukraine, and her family still live there.

Mike Racz, CEO of Racz Group, added: “As the world's attention shifts to various global crises, it is important not to overlook the dire situation in Ukraine, where millions of people are facing an imminent humanitarian crisis. The country is in urgent need of supplies and relief, especially as the prospect of renewed conflict looms.

“I am so grateful to Karl for his support in delivering this vital aid at a time when the conflict is once again, escalating.

“We would love for as many people as possible to be part of this incredible challenge. Your support can make a world of difference.”

Karl Pemberton, managing director of Active Chartered Financial Planners, said: “When Mike mentioned his latest challenge to me, I asked him what he needed the most. When he asked me if I would join him on the trip, it felt instinctive to say ‘yes’. There’s power in numbers so of course I offered to be his copilot. I have known Mike for a number of years and having seen what the Ukraine people are going through, I felt the need to play my part in making a difference.

“Our Teesside business community is renowned for rallying for good causes, I’m sure Mike’s amazing mission will be no exception!”

Contributions are being collected at Racz Group’s head office, located at Wynyard Park Business Park; the Active Financial offices at Teesside Industrial Estate, or at the GoFundMe page: https://gofund.me/c323fbb0. 

ENDS

Contact Josh Mason on 01325 363 436

The following items are being sought for donation:

Personal hygiene (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo)

Towels

Bedding

Warm blankets.

For pensioners:

Disposable underpads

Wet wipes

Personal hygiene (soap, toothpaste, brush)

Warm socks.

For children:

Nappies S, M, L

Sweets (cookies, candies, snacks)

Small toys

Stationery (notepads, pens, pencils, felt-tip pens, colouring books)

Children's hygiene

Socks

Slippers

FOR ALL THESE CATEGORIES:

Porridge

Cereals

Pasta

Canned food (meat, vegetables)

Sunflower oil

Sugar

Tea

Cookies

Many people are also interested in warm clothes.