Yes, that's right folks. I'm going to Patagonia, on a hardcore trek for 11 days and I need your help. I need some will power, motivation (this is a TOUGH challenge), a lot of luck and most of all - your money.

Yes, yes, I know, I hear you, "but what with the credit crunch and all..." well, things still happen, and charities, like the one I work for - NCB (the National Children's Bureau) still need money to be able to carry on with their work.

Where is Patagonia then?

Patagonia is a geographic region containing the southernmost portion of South America. Located in Argentina and Chile, it comprises the Andes mountains to the west and south.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patagonia

What will the trek involve?

Patagonia is one of Chile’s final frontiers. It has some of the most amazing scenery on the planet and toughest trekking south of the hemisphere. Trekking via glaciers, lakes, granite towers, wind-carved cliffs, mountains, moorland, forests and grasslands, this will be an experience never forgotten.

I will be crossing ice-cold mountain rivers and camping in the wilderness whilst watching out for the graceful condors in the skies above.

This is going to be a tough trek, but worth it.

So who the devil is NCB?

Well let me tell you a bit about it and also why I am still here after nearly 6 years...

NCB's Mission is:

To advance the well-being of all children and young people across every aspect of their lives.

NCB aims to:

Reduce inequalities in childhood

Ensure children and young people have a strong voice in all matters that affect their lives

Promote positive images of children and young people

Enhance the health and well-being of all children and young people

Encourage positive and supportive families and other environments

Now I hear you, that's some pretty grand aims? And how on earth do we think we can do that?!

Well...

NCB does this through influencing and informing policy, practice and service development; undertaking high quality research; disseminating accessible information, and developing partnership working. 

NCB works across the policy areas relevant to children and young people, particularly early years, social care, disability, health and well-being, and play and positive activities.  Our work is highly influential on central and local government policy, and on practice and service development.

Have a look at our website www.ncb.org.uk to see more of what we do!

Donating!

This trip requires me to get the fundraising cash in BEFORE I go. I am therefore asking that you pay up now. This means NCB gets the cash in advance and the trip can definitely happen.

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure.

It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: National Children's Bureau 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.

Thank you for your support.