Young people in Rhondda Cynon Taf put their best feet forward to raise over £1,600 to help victims of the Haitian earthquake.
The group of 47, aged from 12 to 55, completed a 12-mile hike across the Rhondda mountains to raise the impressive sum.
The hikers were leaders and young people from St John the Baptist High School, Maerdy Youth Club, Rhondda Fach Girls’ Netball Team, Hawthorn High School, Pontypridd High School, Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Programme participants and the council’s Detached Youth Work Team.
As well as raising money for those who are so desperately in need, the sponsored event showcased some of the many initiatives and schemes young people across RCT can take part in.
The walk proved to be such a success – and good fun- that it is now set to be an annual event.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award programme, youth clubs and detached youth workers form an important part of the Council’s Services for Young People department, which has recently been created to ensure young people are given access to the opportunities they are entitled to.
Rhondda Cynon Taf Mayor, Cllr Robert Smith, officially opened the walk when it took place and was pleased to meet with the group at his parlour in the Municipal Buildings, Pontypridd, this week to receive a cheque for the £1658 raised.
He said: “The sponsored walk was an inspired effort to raise a significant sum of money for those who need it the most in Haiti.
“Those who took part, especially the young people and their leaders, should be commended for their efforts on behalf of others.
“As well as supporting an extremely worthy cause, this event also showcases some of the activities that young people can get involved in.
“The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Programme is based on volunteering, personal development and helping others and it was pleased to see participants who have such a global conscience.
“Other members of the group got involved via their engagement with their school, local youth centre and local Detached Youth Work Team.
“It just goes to show that there is a variety of activities to suit all interests available – all young people have to do is ask via their school, E3+ worker or youth worker.”
For more information about the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in Rhondda Cynon Taf, contact Kerry Rees on 07786523915 or 01685 889213 – or go to www.DofE.org.
