World challenge litter picks & wheelie bin washes!

Hello! We're students at Holmfirth High School and are fortunate enough to have the opportunity to join the World Challenge trips to Thailand and Laos in 2023 (Ollie), and Borneo in 2024 (Ben). As well as a unique travel opportunity, a large part of the trip is the chance to support local livelihoods, working alongside local people in community-led projects. In Laos we'll be spending time a bear sanctuary, working with rescued bears whose habitats are being threatened by deforestation and a rife illegal wildlife trade. In Borneo, we'll be spending time in a Longhouse, helping families improve their 'tanju' (longhouse decking areas), as well as working alongside pepper farmers. It is a unique opportunity to learn new skills, connect with the locals, and learn about their lives.

As part of the journey to get there, students are required to plan and initiate fundraising activities. It is our personal aim to do this alongside improving the local area in which we live, hence the decision to commit to fortnightly litter picks in the beautiful Holme Valley. We are also offering a wheelie bin washing service, and odd jobs service, in our village. We appreciate how difficult the financial situation is for so many at the moment, so please don't feel any obligation other than to wish us well. But of course, we'd be extremely grateful for any donations, however small, you feel you could make to help us achieve our goal. We'll be updating this page regularly with reports of our progress. Thank you for reading. Ollie and Ben.