Thanks so much to everyone that donated.  I have now reached my target and collected £2290 (incl. Gift Aid) for Raleigh.  This is a fantastic achievement that will directly impact many people.  I have decided to stop accepting donations on this site but if you missed the opportunity to sponsor me and would like to I would very much appreciate it.  This money will be used for flights, equipment, vaccinations, medicine, training and other expenses.

For your interest myself and Katherine completed the Triathlon yesterday irrespective of bike catastrophes (story for another time) and we are both very happy with our times.

James

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Nicaragua is the second poorest country in the western hemisphere. Having been ravaged by several natural disasters over recent years, there is a severe lack of community infrastructure such as schools, medical centres and housing.

I have decided to stop talking about it and volunteer…  To work with Raleigh as a Project Manager and help develop this infrastructure by building schools and community centres; piping in clean and safe drinking water to the community and help out families with their day to day lives.

This placement is for four months (Sept 08 – Jan 09) and the role is unpaid and entirely self funded.  So whilst I am covering my own flights and expenses, I am required to raise the funds to buy the building materials and support the whole endeavour.

This is where I need your help to raise the £2,000 contribution to these costs.  As well as self funding my side of the costs, I will also be competing in the London Triathlon on the 9th of August and enduring sponsored waxing and shavings of various descriptions (providing I reach my £2,000 target).

Once in Nicaragua I’m not sure exactly what to expect… I do know that there'll be no luxuries like toilets, a bed, electricity or running water!!  And I’m expected to be responsible for up to fifteen 17 to 24 year olds, to manage the work and ensure we complete the assigned project.  EEK :-!

This group will include young people coming from disadvantaged backgrounds.  This experience will give them a fantastic opportunity to help others and gain skills they can bring back to the UK.  Skills that will help them get a job and improve their own lives.

Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Raleigh International will receive your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.

Please help by contributing as much as you can.

Many thanks
James