THE PROJECT

“Growing Communities – Zambia” is a UK-based charity supporting an inspiring community project in a remote rural area in the District of Serenje, Central Zambia. In 2012 a small team of Zambians were concerned at the plight of a remote, widely-scattered community of about 800 people, living in extreme hardship and poverty. They discussed with the community the problems they faced and what help they needed.

The result was the planning and creation of a “resource village” as the centre for practical activities which would enable local villagers to work together to lift themselves out of poverty, build motivation and capability for self-reliance, and create a sustainable future for the community.

Great progress has been made, and many activities are underway, including a school, church, health post, visitors’ accommodation, cooperative agriculture and skills training.

Full details are available at the Growing Communities Zambia website.

WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT

The school was built by hand using clay bricks dug from the riverside and wood-fired. Local families carried out the work, including many young children who were desperate for the opportunity to attend school. Initially one classroom was built, and this is now used each day for lessons with up to 100 children. Some of the children walk up to two hours through the bush to attend. Many of their parents also attend adult literacy classes in the afternoon.

The number of children attending continues to grow steadily, and there is now an urgent need to build a second classroom and recruit a second teacher. Your donation will make this possible.

THE EVENT

David Hillson is a novice runner who started running on 10 July 2020 using the NHS “Couch to 5K” app, and he’s kept going ever since! He’s marking his first “runniversary” by taking part in the ASICS London 10K race on 25 July 2021. David also had abdominal surgery in mid-May which meant no running for six weeks, making this an extra challenge.

David visited the project in Zambia four years ago, and he’s keen to help these amazing people fulfil their awesome vision. He’ll be supported in the race by son-in-law Stu Donaldson, who’s also running to raise funds for the Zambia project. Please help us to help them. Thank you!