People across the UK are being invited to join International Animal Rescue’s (IAR) latest fundraising challenge and help bears rescued from captivity.
The “Step Up for Bears” virtual challenge runs throughout July 2026 and asks supporters to walk 56 miles; that’s 1 mile for each of IAR’s rescued bears in Armenia. Whether tackling the challenge in their local park, walking the countryside or logging miles on a treadmill/gym visits/commuting, every step will help give the bears a second chance at life.
All of the funds raised by this challenge will go towards lifelong sanctuary, expert veterinary care, food and enrichment toys for IAR’s rescued bears.
Alan Knight OBE, President of International Animal Rescue said: “The suffering these rescued bears have faced breaks my heart. Last year we rescued three bears from a back yard. These were some of the worst conditions I have ever seen. The stench, the filth, the sheer cruelty of locking these animals up in tiny cages and feeding them cola, it was absolutely horrific. But, thanks to this challenge we can help provide these rescued bears with the care they deserve. Each step participants take will help us to continue to provide sanctuary and specialist care for these animals.”
The beauty of this challenge is that it’s very flexible and steps can be logged any time between 1–31 July 2026 and the entry fee is just £5. There are also exclusive rewards for those that fundraise, including medals, T-shirts and limited edition Step Up for Bears merchandise.
You can find out more about International Animal Rescue’s work rescuing and rehabilitating bears in Armenia. International Animal Rescue has been rescuing bears from captivity since 2017 and work closely with local partners to provide them with a place of safety where they can live out the rest of their lives.
You can sign up for the challenge here: https://shop.internationalanimalrescue.org/collections/events/products/2026-step-up-for-bears