What’s in the works for 2019?
We’ve got an exciting programme of outings planned for 2019. As well as the Snow Day in Courchevel in March, there’s an Easter Egg Hunt in Thones in April and a Swim Trip to Marquisats Pool in June. And of course there will be the annual Christmas Party, for 400 people, organised with Secours Populaire and Collectif Urgence Roms. These events are for children in Annecy who live in shelters, in temporary accommodation and encampments. Because of their family circumstances these children rarely, if ever, go on outings so our events are an important part of their year.
As fundraisers, we’ll be organising a Vide-Grenier stand in October and a sponsored trail walk/run in Talloires-Montmin in September. Alongside this, we will continue to provide Baby Boxes for new mums and use our network on Facebook to respond to calls for necessities such as clothing or bedding from local charities. We’ll also be supporting Lake Aider Suzanne Balthazard with her colonies solidaires in Menthon Saint Bernard, as well as working with Secours Populaire to send 3 children to a holiday camp this Summer.
What are you most proud from 2018?
I’m most proud of the Swim Day at the Marquisats Pool that we organised for children living in the Red Cross shelter at the Etape de Semnoz. We realised at the last minute that there was a wheelchair-bound little boy who wasn’t coming on the outing because he could not get down the pool. We quickly spoke to his mum, arranged a parental release form, and drove him down to the pool to join the other kids. One of our helpers Ken helped him into the pool and stayed with him for the whole afternoon. It was the little boy’s first time in a swimming pool and I think the grin on his face that day will stay with us all forever.
What would you like to see more of in 2019?
I’d love to see more people get involved in Lake Aid. I honestly think the volunteers get as much out of Lake Aid as the children we help! Lake Aid enables us to take a step back from hectic schedules, to see a different side of life in Annecy, and to make a difference – even if it’s just a small one. All our volunteers lead busy lives and have other commitments on their time, so everyone just does as much as they can. Even helping out at one event a year is enough to make a difference!
How can people get involved/ what’s most needed from volunteers this year?
The best way of getting involved is to join our Facebook Group. We regularly post information about upcoming events and appeals. If you have time, or skills, jump in! We have a meeting every couple of months which is always open to everyone. Coming to one of our meetings is a great way to get a feel for Lake Aid, meet the faces behind the Facebook posts, and get involved in our projects. And if you don’t have time to give, then we are always very happy to accept donations to fund our outings.
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