Tuesday, 12 January 2010

Yippee! Confirmation of volunteer placement!

Just after setting up this blog we encountered a 'hitch' with the original volunteer placement in Kampala - working with the Uganda Local Government Association. VSO got in touch with us to say that this placement was going to need more development work before they could supply a volunteer. Obviously we were disappointed. But we soon cheered up when VSO suggested an alternative placement.

The new placement involves Ian working to provide 'capacity building' support for a newly established umbrella organisation - MARP - which stands for Most At Risk Populations. MARP exists to support the members of its network - voluntary organisations who are working to support people in Uganda with HIV / Aids.

Renate and Ian are very excited about this placement and the departure day of 18 February has been confirmed today! So now it is all systems go to pack up our house which we've lived in for 27 years - we're renting it out for the year we'll be in Kampala.

Yippee! Excited! Nervous!

4 comments:

  1. I just heard your news because I got emailed the church newsletter because I'm doing the prayers this morning - it sounds so exciting!! will enjoy reading your news!
    good luck for all your preparations!
    Jen x (Ryder)

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  2. Good luck you two I'll follow with interest

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  3. Iantwee and Aunty!

    Little do the people of Uganda realise what a blessing is in store for them when you landed in Kampala last night.
    United by your love of people - your partnership has come to signify to us all - the importance of being citizens of the world.
    Throughout your married life you have always striven to put the needs of others first and we are immensely proud to be your friends.
    May the year ahead bring much fulfillment to you and in turn, joy to the lives of all the people within MARP... and beyond.
    Farewell my lovelies - go well and may the wind be always at your back.
    You will be sorely missed.
    Lots and lots of love,
    Nigel and Laura.xxx

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  4. Hello Ian and Renate! Hope you're both well. You missed a great party at Wood Lane Countryside Centre for Mary's retirement, the Ceilidh band (The QP) were great, all under 30 and very energetic,(possibly a little too energetic for us old 'uns,) the Farmer's Blonde was delicious as was Sue Briggs pie and peas. Mary had a great time! We raised a few bob for Ruth and Paul's Greave House Farm project while we were at it. We'll be following your progress with great interest so behave yourselves!!
    All the best from all of us, lerve,
    Mary & Robin.

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Ian will be working as a volunteer with VSO and he's set a fund raising target of £1,000 to be reached before setting off. Money raised will go to support VSO's most pressing needs - it won't be used to fund Ian's placement.