<p>Reachout pair University students with young people from underprivileged high-crime areas. They form a mentoring relationship and the student helps to guide the young person away from the temptations of gangs, drugs and crime.</p> <p>Last year's riots show what happens when young people feel that they have no hope. Reachout helps young people to fulfil their latent potential.</p> <p>Reachout has had some great successes in the years since I volunteered for them in Manchester - many of the young people who were mentored back in 2005-2006 are now mentors themselves, some are employed by the charity in full time positions and well over 90% are in employment and making a positive contribution to their community.</p> <p>Reachout are a small charity and are always in need of funds to keep things going. The Reachout fundraising bike rides started in 2003, I was lucky enough to take part in 2006 (Glasgow to John O'Groats), 2007 (Anglesey to Cardiff) and 2009 (Holy Island to York). This year's ride is for 1 day only - from Manchester to Lincoln - the whole route will be over 100 miles and will take in much of the Peak District, so it will be a big challenge for all of us.</p> <p>-------</p> <p>Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.</p> <p>Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving &ndash; they&rsquo;ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they&rsquo;ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it&rsquo;s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.</p> <p>So please dig deep and donate now.</p>