Young people in South Africa grow up facing over 50% youth-unemployment and almost 20% suffering from HIV, with even higher figures in rural areas. Alongside other volunteers, and with your help, I aim to battle this.

I, Matt Smith, have successfully gained a place on the government-funded International Citizen Service where in March 2014 I'll live in South Africa for three months, to hopefully save lives and make a true difference in young people's education around sexual health.

It's important to note that ALL of the costs involved in my volunteering are covered by government, such as flights, insurance, food and accomodation. Any and all donations go directly to the charity to have a true impact right on the frontline of poverty.

As part of my commitment to long term changes, I aim to raise £800 for the charity I'll be volunteering with, Restless Development. Whether it's 50p or £50 I'm incredibly grateful for any support, and will definitely be sharing my stories and experience when I return in June 2014.

JustGiving sends donations directly to the chosen charity, in this case, RestlessDevelopment, ensuring every penny given goes to the right place. Take a look at the work I'll be contributing to: #mce_temp_url#

 

So, thanks for reading, and even more for any support you might offer.

Sincerely,

   Matt

 

Some official health statistics on South Africa http://www.who.int/bulletin/volumes/91/1/12-106807/en/index.html