Marshall White Group Sales Director John Bongiorno was back on his bike to take on the Very Special Ride on February 28 - a challenging 140-kilometre journey through the stunning Mornington Peninsula. The event aimed to raise vital funds for Very Special Kids, Victoria's only children’s hospice, which provides holistic paediatric palliative care for children with life-limiting conditions and tailored support for their families.
John set an ambitious personal fundraising goal of $20,000, driven by a desire to make a meaningful difference for children facing unimaginable health battles. “No child should face their journey alone, and no family should navigate the heartbreak without support,” he said. “The work Very Special Kids does is incredible, and knowing my efforts contributed to that made every kilometre worth it.”
The ride saw participants tackle winding hills and coastal stretches while working toward the event’s collective $200,000 fundraising target. Each rider was encouraged to raise at least $2,000, with every dollar directly supporting Very Special Kids’ life-changing services. These include respite care, end-of-life support, bereavement programs, and family counselling, which are offered free of charge across Victoria, from Melbourne to regional communities like the Mornington Peninsula.
Thanks to the generosity of supporters, John surpassed his personal goal, demonstrating how collective action can effect genuine change. “Every donation, big or small, made a difference,” he emphasised.
While the ride may be over, the need for support continues. To learn more about Very Special Kids and how you can help, visit veryspecialkids.org.au.
