In 2016 we founded the Black Isle Group (BIG) Foundation to help remote communities in Africa and also provide a springboard for Veterans to embrace the next stage of their lives.   

Our first project in 2017-19 was building a new nursery school in Itinyi, in the Tsavo area of southern Kenya.  The local environment is harsh, water is in short supply and there is a human/wildlife conflict which means food supplies are constantly at risk. It is quite literally a hand to mouth existence for many young families. 

We completed the £15,000 project in December 2019 thanks to donations and fund raising efforts from Black Isle Group, and with the support of two major client sponsors, Oodle Car Finance and The Fry Group, who sent teams over to Kenya to help build.  The classroom provides a safe environment for up to 45 youngsters who would otherwise be at risk.  

After the success of this project, we have now identified two more  projects in Kenya which we are fundraising for.  By focusing our support on local schools, we can provide classrooms, water storage facilities, and kitchens which will quite literally save lives. Nursery Schools quite simply provide a safe environment where young children can be nurtured, educated and also provided with food and water. Such is the environment in which they live, this is not always available at their homes, some of which are over an hour's walk away. 

We then sponsor Veteran volunteers to travel overseas for the trip of a lifetime and get involved in the projects.  It's an amazing experience which "changes lives" on both sides.  The Veterans find a rediscover a sense of purpose, develop their entrepreneurial skills and motivation.  Specialist mentors provide experience and advice to Veterans who want to understand how to improve their career opportunties, or even start their own businesses.    

It is important for anyone donating to know that 100% of the money we raise will go to helping Veterans take part in our projects. None of the money is spent on administration or management. This is because all of the administration, manpower and local expertise is sourced and provided by our partners in Kenya, Camps International, from their permanent bases in Africa. 

For more details, or to get involved, visit https://www. big-foundation.org