Most of the initiatives that ATE put into practice come through the obvious route from idea to activation via Sarah and her team, trustees and volunteers, but just occasionally ideas pop out of the woodwork when you least expect them. It demonstrates how the good people of Ramsbury and other places in the vicinity have taken ATE and its inspirational work to their hearts.
One such idea came through Toby Quinn who plays for Ramsbury Football club and who is currently an ATE volunteer as part of his Duke of Edinburgh award scheme.
Recognising the global nature of football, members of the club have thrown themselves into this idea and, when Sarah gets on to her plane to Ghana next week , in her luggage will be football clothing ie shirts, shorts and socks donated by the club. On top of this, members of the club have agreed to collect enough money to buy footballs so they too will be soon be winging their way to Lawra.
This a wonderful way of our community reaching out to the community of Lawra. R
amsbury and surrounding villages are fairly prosperous and raising money like this is relatively easy but the impetus and good will have to be there in the first place.
These small schemes make such a difference in Lawra. Imagine the excitement when the young Ghanian footballers first see the Ramsbury kit! It is meaningful in so many ways and if, nothing else, underlines the inequalities of our world and how we can make a difference with seemingly little effort.
Thank you Toby and Jason and your footballers. I know your gesture will be much appreciated and I’m sure everyone concerned will be looking forward to hearing about how their donations were received. Knowing Sarah there will be a whole portfolio of photos!
By Mair Reed
*UPDATE*
When Sarah delivered the donated football kits to the children of Karbo Junior High School last November, they were delighted! The students are big fans of football and it is a cheering sight to see a game being played on the dusty yard. After-school clubs are not an option for the children at Karbo, with many children ambling slowly with friends at the end of school before heading home to do homework and help with chores. The provision of these smart, Ramsbury blue, football shirts is a great excuse for the children to get together and have some after-school fun, bonding and healthy competition! When Sarah returned again in November 2017, she was overjoyed to learn of the continued use and enjoyment the Karbo JHS students get from their Ramsbury kits. It helps bring the students together, both those playing and supporting, and offers a wonderful chance to just have fun! What a simple yet brilliant gift!