Men who love rollercoaster rides sought to help charity

Disneyland, California. Image by Nani Leilani / CC BY 2.0

Male volunteers who are willing to take on the rollercoaster rides of Disney World are being urged to come forward to make the holiday dreams of 25 disabled children come true.

Caudwell Children is appealing for men who are happy to brave the likes of the Rock ‘n’ Roller coaster, featuring Aerosmith, to volunteer for its annual Destination Dreams trip to Florida.

The charity organises the holiday to give 25 children with life-threatening illnesses the opportunity to experience a “dream” holiday to Disney World.

But to ensure that the holiday goes ahead, from November 29 to December 7, the charity needs to find a team of volunteers who can support the children and their families on their journey and is appealing for more men to come forward.

Julia Hayne, head of community programmes at Caudwell Children, said: “The holiday is life changing for both families and volunteers alike. However, there is always an even split of boys and girls on the trip so we need more male volunteers to reflect this balance, and act as role models to the boys who attend.

“The holiday is the perfect environment in which families can enjoy quality time together. Parents can forget the day-to-day challenges of their child’s condition and experience fun-packed days where all their needs are catered for.

“It would be fantastic if we could attract more male volunteers as we know, from those who have attended to date, that they have a rewarding and enjoyable experience.

“By providing families with an extra pair of hands, volunteers give them the support that they need to have a fabulous holiday. It’s often the simple things that make the difference; carrying bags, pushing wheelchairs or just entertaining the children.”

Julia said that volunteers do not need to have any experience, adding: “Volunteers just need to have empathy, commitment and a desire to create a fun holiday that will provide lasting memories for the children and families involved.”

Jim Redmond, 66, from Birmingham, volunteered on the Destination Dreams holiday in 2014.

Speaking of the trip, he said: “There was so much laughter and joy amongst the whole party. It was infectious throughout the group; children, parents, volunteers and Caudwell Children staff, they became one big family.

“What I’ll always remember is the happiness, the fantastic camaraderie and so much brilliant banter. Even the kids were joining in, which was great because you knew then that they had finally forgotten about their illnesses.

“I’d urge anyone to volunteer; you’ll get so much from it. The enjoyment is difficult to describe and the trip made me feel great. One thing’s for sure, what you get back from the families is a thousand times more than what you put in.”

For further information and an application pack, contact the volunteer team on 01782 600443 or email volunteer@caudwellchildren.com.

(Press Association)