So I haven't updated this in a while and it's mainly been because I wasn't sure how to. Some of this blog is extracts from one written in March but which I never actually published.
Why aren't you in Africa?
In March 2013 my mum got diagnosed with breast cancer which was a massive shock to everyone. Subsequently I delayed my departure to January so I could be here for most of the treatment. PT were very supportive throughout this process and I wrote letters to all the trusts who had given me money to inform them.
This later departure date meant that I was able to spend my summer volunteering at Quaker Cottage, a family centre where I split my time working the the babies/preschools and the 6-12 age group. We did lots of craft and it gave me confidence around the younger age group who I hadn't had much experience before. (I am now a complete expert at throwing/catching/spinning/ chasing/piggybacking/wresting the under7's.)
Fundraising Updates
From March
'On the 13th of this month, while I was sitting on my laptop, I got an e-mail through from Vrigin Money Giving telling me I got a donor for £555.00. (!) What?
I couldn't believe this, and still do not know who or what trust it is from, but thank-you so much!
Today, again through the door another £500 from a trust.
For any future volunteers, writing to trusts is one of the most important fundraising steps. Though it may take a long time to initially research them, write that perfect letter, address them, stamp them, envelope them, then eventually post them.
It is so worth it.'
Since then my fundraising has kind of halted... but spending a lot of time at work means i'm not worried about the rest of the funds, I know it'll come :)
PT Parents Evening (March)
Another thing that happened was the Project Trust Parents evening, which for the Northern Ireland Applicants was held at Queens University. It gave the chance for all the Northern Ireland (and a few from Ireland) volunteers and parents to meet together and swap fundraising ideas. While I thought bag packs were out of the question (Asda said no to me) we found that other stores did let bag packs happen and it was very much a store dependent process. So I might ask around for over Christmas period. It gave parents the chance to chat, and gave them a support basis for when we are away - which I think will be very helpful for them.
Those are updates i've probably left out a lot. I will write another blog post tomorrow about my new placement in .......... (drumroll please)...
