Thanks for visiting my JustGiving page. I ran the Virgin London Marathon in April 2014 for Lattitude Global Volunteering. This might seem a bit of a strange choice given that many people run marathons to cure diseases and/or in memory of a loved one (some people even do it for fun!), but here are some pretty solid reasons as to why I am running for Lattitude:

Firstly, Lattitude changed my life and I feel that I have some sort of duty to thank them for that. I spent 7 months in New Zealand in 2011 on a Lattitude placement. Before this, I was a shy teenage girl who was out of her comfort zone far more often than she was in it. I hated talking on the phone, meeting new people and any sort of new social situation. I like to think that I have changed a lot since then. Anyone who has witnessed the transformation in my confidence and character from pre-Lattitude to post-Lattitude can vouch for that.

Secondly, Lattitude does a lot of good work and I don't think they get the recognition they deserve. Lattitude placements benefit the young person who goes overseas as they have an opportunity to experience another culture and grow as person. Lattitude helps young people to help make a positive difference in the lives of others and that is something that I feel is massively underrated in terms of personal development. Aside from the benefits for young people, the work Lattitude does in the communities that receive their support is invaluable.

Thirdly, donations to Lattitude are really important - they help to keep the cost of going on a placement with Lattitude as low as possible, this means that it stays affordable for a wider range of people. I despise the thought of gap years and volunteering opportunities becoming a pastime restricted to the wealthy.

Thank you for your support in this crazy endeavour of mine.

 

 

 

(Here is a little spiel from JustGiving about how amazing they are: Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.)