This summer I’ve decided to stray from my comfort zone of London’s hustle and bustle and instead spend five and a half weeks in Nepal on an expedition with DUCK (Durham University Charities Kommittee). Our group of twenty volunteers will spend roughly half the time trekking to Annapurna Base Camp and the other half experiencing the traditional Nepali way of life while taking part in community based projects. The money raised through going on this expedition will fund the charity ‘Future for Nepal’ ( http://www.futurefornepal.com/ ). The charity’s extremely worthwhile cause helps the youth of one of Asia’s poorest countries by providing them with not only an education, but also a safe environment where all the needs of a child are provided for. We will be teaching in schools and helping with construction projects and the trekking phase of the trip will undoubtedly challenge us further physically and mentally.

I feel incredibly lucky to have this fantastic opportunity but this will also be quite a challenge to fundraise for and so here’s where I let you know how any little contribution you can also make will make a difference! I appreciate we all have our own targets to save for but if you do feel like giving anything to this cause it will all be greatly appreciated!

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. Thank you.

Lots of love for 2010,

Sophie x