Thanks for visiting my fundraising page!
This is a truly exciting cause and I’m so thankful for your support.

About the Trip:
This year, I’m embarking on a new challenge to climb Mt. Everest (up to Camp 1) in order to raise money to help build Nepal’s education system. I'll be partnering with Volunteer Services Overseas (VSO), a non for profit organization that works through a network of volunteers to tackle some of the toughest social plights faced by developing countries.

Last year, my goal was to raise money to tackle health issues in sub-Saharan Africa. This year, my focus is on education in Asia, specifically Nepal.  Why education? Because I believe the lack thereof, is the leading cause of world poverty and marginalization. In my view, education is the key to getting out of poverty, living a better life, promoting social change and ultimately, the solution to stronger and more resilient societies.

About the Cause:
For those of you who don’t know, Nepal is one of the poorest countries in Asia with 31% of the population still living below the poverty line. Their healthcare is dilapidated, half of the people are unemployed and illiterate, discrimination continues to be common practice, and socio-economic disparities are common. On top of that the Nepalese live in some of the harshest terrains on this planet prone to earthquakes and monsoons that cause massive flooding. As you can see Nepal is one of those countries we rarely talk about but that desperately need our help. Knowing that we can’t solve all of their problems, at least we can take preventative measures by investing their education system.

On that topic, did you know that 13% of Nepalese children never go to school, and for those who do, there are high class repetition and drop out rates. To make matters worse, Nepal has a shortage of schools, teachers, and learning supplies.

Your contribution will help fund teachers who work in remote areas of Nepal. It will help increase the quality of education by improving teaching methods. It will help to purchase school books and other supplies. It will help with the implementation of new policy, improve the management of education to make it more inclusive, transparent and relevant. Our hope by fostering education is that we can help Nepal in building a population with the knowledge, confidence and communications skills to help itself.

About The Challenge:
It’s a three week journey through Nepal from Katmandu to Everest and back. The first part of my voyage, I will be visiting VSO projects to get a feel for their work. Then, I’m headed off to climb Mt. Everest (up to camp 1, 20,000 feet).

About Donating:
Donating through www.justgiving.com/elliotbrook is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me.

A few pointers… Look into matching contributions from your company. After donating, use the receipt to claim your tax deduction. Remember your are donating in British pounds (the exchange rate is GBP£1 to USD$1.5)

 
Thanks so much for your pledge!!!
I’ll be posting regular updates so keep tuned!!!

Regards,
Elliot.

Website for more information:
http://www.vso.org.uk/accentureeverestbasecamp

Video on a Project in Nepal:
http://www.volunteerlinking.org.uk/past/julie_wilson/gallery/videos.asp