Raleigh London thanks helpers on International Volunteer Day
5 December 2008
Raleigh London, a society which enables volunteers returning from a Raleigh expedition to get involved with local projects, is celebrating the efforts of its volunteers on International Volunteer Day.
Youth and education charity Raleigh runs challenging expeditions throughout the year in Borneo, Costa Rica and Nicaragua, and India. On their return from expedition, volunteers are encouraged to join the vibrant community of Raleigh alumni all around the world. Unique to Raleigh, the concept of a ‘Fourth Challenge' enables people to use the skills they have developed on expedition to become active global citizens, committed to making a difference on their return.
Throughout the year, Raleigh alumni and volunteers work on both community and environmental projects of benefit to the local area. Raleigh London projects over the past year include volunteering on Hampstead Heath to help redefine a Saxon boundary ditch; painting a mural at a nursery school in Bethnal Green; and involvement with Crisis Open Christmas - a time honoured tradition which involves volunteers helping out at Crisis centres throughout the Christmas period.
Dominic Martin, chair of Raleigh London who went on expedition in Namibia in 2002, said that Raleigh has been part of who he is since the day he first signed up. Dominic said: "The wonderful spirit and commitment to youth and education development is an addictive combination. Raleigh is for everyone - whether you've just returned from an expedition or simply want to get involved and make a positive impact on the lives of others; volunteering with Raleigh is a great way to meet like-minded people, gain invaluable experience and, of course, have a good time!"
Debra Hay, Raleigh Alumni Manager, added: "Raleigh is now working to create new and exciting partnerships with volunteering organisations across the UK, including the Red Cross, Volunteer Reading Help and the National Trust. We have many short and long-term volunteering opportunities available to our alumni from outdoor conservation projects, to sports coaching and involvement in our Youth Forum. It's great to hear that Raleigh London is working on projects which make a real difference to the local community."
Ends
For further information, please contact:
Anne Grenyer
Press and Campaigns Manager
Raleigh
Tel: 020 7183 1298
Email: anne.grenyer@raleigh.org.uk
Notes to Editors:
Raleigh
Raleigh is a youth and education charity. Since 1984, our expeditions have inspired 30,000 people from all walks of life, nationalities and ages to be all they can be, helping them develop new skills and friendships and make a difference to communities and environments across the world.
We all have an expedition within us. Find yours at raleighinternational.org
Raleigh's Fourth Challenge
Raleigh was founded on four challenges:
1. To be selected
2. To raise the funds
3. To go on expedition
4. To make a difference on your return
Raleigh's Fourth Challenge is about providing support and opportunities for alumni after expedition, to continue making a positive impact on the lives of others. Raleigh alumni may decide to undertake projects similar to those on expedition or to try out something new with a different organisation. For further information about volunteering for Raleigh, please contact Rosie Palliser, Alumni and Events Assistant, on 020 7183 1290 or rosie.palliser@raleigh.org.uk
