Under clear skies, kids band together at camp, challenging themselves while enjoying camaraderie. The Agonoree 2019 enriches their skills and bonds through outdoor adventures.
Back in May we announced the Alpkit Foundation's support of this years Agoonaree camp. It's a chance for Scouts with special needs from Greater London to go camping and enables themto take part in a variety of activities, whatever their need requirements may be.This year they were staying near Southampton.
Kara got back in touch just to let us know what a great time they had.
"The award enabled the 2019 camp to take place as our usual source of funding was unable to support us. The money contributed towards the running costs which meant we were able to subsidise the fees that young people and volunteers pay."
33 Scouts attended this year, being supported by a enthusiastic band ofapproximately 70 volunteers.
"The Scouts got to take part in a variety of activities such as archery and climbing, an art day and trips out. Due to the nature of their needs they would not otherwise have been able to take part in these activities. Further details can be found on our Agoonoree pages.The young people had a fantastic week, learnt new skills and had new experiences. The volunteers and Scouts formed new friendships and the majority will return next year."
What's so amazing about this camp is that it goes further than giving the Scouts an incredible experience. The camp plays a vital role in giving parents and carers some important respite, with some being able to go on holiday. Then there are the volunteers, able to give back to the local community and have their own unique experiences.So it really did have a huge impact on lots of people!
One of our awesome customers, Chris Menmuir saw our news piece and decided to volunteer for this years camp. He got back in touch to tell us about his experience.
"You featured an article about the Agoonoree Scout Camp. Planning to make a donation, I contacted the organisers. But having heard more about the event, I also ended up volunteering as a general helper for the week.
It was active work, because I wanted to get involved in the setting up and daily running of the camp. At the same time it was an amazingly good experience. The other helpers, many with decades of experience, were friendly and great fun to be with.
Along with the chores of pitching tents, washing up etc, I got involved with archery, axe-throwing, rafting, baseball, and the day-to-day interacting with the most amazing and diverse set of (disabled) young people I have ever met. Their positivity, and the efforts of their family and carers, made me appreciate my own good fortune even more.
Keep up the good work in promoting “doing good things”, and thank you for the link. Without any hesitation I volunteered for next year! I’m not involved in the organising, just a newbie, inspired, but maybe you could put out a shout for the next camp?
Volunteers play a vital role in making sure the Scouts have an amazing week. So yes, if anyone would be interested in getting involved then they would really welcome visitors or volunteers to their 2020 camp near Oxford. You can find out more HERE