Introduction The Association raises funds through-out the year to support young people living with us with numerous personal development activities that have a long term benefit to their lives. The “Can Do Fund” has assisted numerous young people over the years.

To qualify for the fund the young person needs to prove that their activity is well planned, purposeful and will have a long term benefit in terms of personal development.

Young people have used the fund to support their fundraising for Raleigh International Expedition, Tall Ship Voyages, to pay for train fare to go to open days at universities and to meet up with close relatives that they have not seen for years after family break ups.

If you would like a leaflet about the fund please click here

Here are a number of young people’s stories.

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Kim visits Uganda
In February I went to Uganda which is in Africa. It took 30 hours to get there, I had to board two planes and then travel to where we were staying.

I visited a lot of projects such as a bakery, water supply and a beehive project. I also went to visit a lot of sites, such as schools and people’s homes.

The food there was ok, we had rice and beans. We had to drink a lot of water otherwise you would be ill, especially because of the weather as it was 44°c. I was ill a bit because
of the heat and not drinking enough water. All of us in the group were none stop busy for all the two weeks. We had to push ourselves a lot and it was very challenging. It was an
amazing experience.

My whole frame of mind and opinion on life has changed since the trip. I am more focussed and positive. I’ve come back on a really positive note. When you go to do something like I have done you become a better person, knowing you have changed so many lives for the better, as well as your own. It’s a memory that I’ll never forget, it’s been a great experience and many people like me, could do something similar.

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Voyage of Discovery
In June, 6 intrepid sailors embarked on a voyage lasting 1 week, on a sailing ship called the Duet, sailing from Penzance, Cornwall to Holyhead, Wales. A voyage that would change the outlook of all concerned.

Every emotion was experienced, as the young people and staff act as crew on this antique craft, which is highly thought of by the sailing industry.

They were sea sick, sunburned, deprived of sleep, chefs, cleaners, deck hands, team players, family members, story tellers, musicians and singers!

They were supported for the week by Dawn Franklin (captain), and mate Eric, what a great team they made. They encouraged everyone to take personal responsibility, whilst confronting the demands and challenges of life at sea.

Hopefully the confidence, self esteem and positive attitude gained on this trip will change the course of young lives.