Thanks for visiting my fundraising page.

Having taken the plunge last  December with white water rafting I am now seeing if my land legs hold out.

This weekend the 11 October I  will be walking around Solihull to raise funds for Sports Pursuits.  A voluntary organisation called Sustain Solihull has organised  a walk of varying distances up to 12 miles for local charities so supporters can help raise funds

Thank you to all who have given so generously so far.  The plan is to provide the resources to enable us to develop the charity and its programme whilst maintaining our distinctive Christian approach.  We want to be less dependent on external sources of funding that may compromise this or not support our values.

I am writing to churches, youth groups, schools, families and friends who have benefited or taken an interest in my involvment with Sports Pursuits over the years to ask whether you would be willing to support the campaign.

Please take a few minutes to visit our website here: www.sportspursuits.org

This will give you a good insight into the charity and what we are seeking to achieve in the lives of the young people we are involved with.

Progress

We have made some good progress in the local schools. Behaviour has improved by over 50% this had been measured by A To Ws ( Attitudes to work) A measurement from 8 to 1.The pupil is measured at the beginning of every term and if the scores are 5 and below they are seen on a one to one basis and strategys put into place to help get back on track

I see at first hand every day how sports coaching and teamwork can make a big difference to an individual's self confidence and attitude as we teach lifeskills and self discipline in a safe and affirming way.

To highlight what can be achieved let me share a story with you.

My friend Ibrahim who I work with at City Road Junior School rang the other day to ask if I remembered James  who we worked with as a year 6 pupil in Nechells. I said yes. He said he has just been given a contract for 2 years with a team in the First Division . This is amazing as the father had left home when he was young and his mother died of an overdose 2 years ago. Hopefully Sports Pursuits has played some part in that young mans journey.  

The Trustees and I are passionate about Sports Pursuits and what it can do to make a difference in the lives of children, young people and their families.  We want to see the charity develop in strength and influence over the next ten years and would greatly appreciate your support to help us achieve these aims.

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Sports Pursuits gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.

So please sponsor me now!  -  THANK YOU!!!

Derek

PS  Whatever amount you can give will be much appreciated , also if you know of others, individuals or churches who also might have an interest in the development of Sports Pursuits, please pass the link on to them.