Active Chartered Financial Planners

Mike Racz, CEO of Racz Group, and Karl Pemberton, managing director of Active Chartered Financial Planners, have successfully returned from their humanitarian mission despite attempts by the Polish authorities to halt them at the border during the first attempt.

Originally departing in mid-January in a transit van full of supplies, the duo had originally expected a straightforward, 2,500-mile round trip, but faced numerous challenges along the way.

Technical issues with the van caused by bad weather en route came to a head in Krakow, when freezing temperatures of -15 almost stopped them in their tracks. But thanks to some quick thinking, quick learning, and an army of keen helpers, the eager duo managed to resume their mission.

Disaster struck a second time, not long after getting back on the road, whereupon reaching the Polish border, the intrepid duo was denied entry into Ukraine and were left with no choice but to return to the UK, leaving their van of goods in temporary storage.

Undeterred, Mike and Karl began a lengthy dialogue with various authorities, came up with a plan B and were eventually permitted to return to complete their mercy mission to Ukraine late in February.

Through contributions across the North East, the operation raised over £21,000 in cash donations, as well as enough clothing, food and toiletries donations to fill not only the van, but two 40-tonne articulated lorries, which is bound for communities around Kryvyi Rih in Central Ukraine.

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

Karl Pemberton, managing director of Active Chartered Financial Planners, said: “It’s been an incredible experience to share this journey with Mike, who’s initiative has raised an amazing amount of much needed supplies for families in Ukraine.

“The support from back home shows the power of community and compassion in action. Together, we've made a real difference, and I'm so grateful for the chance to contribute to such a meaningful cause.

“Travelling through Ukraine, an active war zone, was nothing like I have experienced before, I cannot imagine how it must feel to live in constant fear, as the Ukrainian people have for the past two years.”

Mike Racz added: “What started out as a ’simple’ delivery of a van and aid ended in an amazing adventure with Karl and ultimately with Kateryna, who was instrumental in getting us through the border and later on helping us with the local police so we can leave the country.

“Personally, it feels amazing to know that we have helped so many people, made a big difference in a small and distant community, formed lifelong friendships, and created memories for life.

“I couldn’t be more grateful for Karl doing this journey with me, we certainly kept each other sane on what turned out to be a 45-hour journey!”

ENDS

Contact: Alex Dryden on 01325 363 436