A dedicated volunteer is preparing to take on the TCS London Marathon - all in support of the National Youth Advocacy Service (NYAS) - inspired by her passion for supporting care-experienced young people.
Ruth, who has volunteered with NYAS for more than two years as an Independent Visitor, is no stranger to the marathon challenge. This year marks her third time running the iconic race - but this one carries special meaning.
“NYAS is an amazing charity that I have volunteered with for over 2 years as an Independent Visitor, supporting a care-experienced young person. Volunteering for NYAS has been one of the best things I have ever done, and it's why I am so delighted to be running for this charity.”
- Ruth
As an Independent Visitor, Ruth has provided consistent, one-to-one support - meeting monthly with the young person she has been matched with to share experiences and offer a listening ear. From bowling matches and trips to the zoo, to theatre visits, cinema outings and even learning how to make donuts together, their time has been filled with moments that create lasting memories.
But beyond the activities, it is their connection that has mattered most.
Each meeting has been an opportunity to talk openly about life’s challenges, offering guidance and encouragement along the way.
"Seeing life through their eyes and supporting them through the upcoming challenges they were facing was both a privilege and a humbling experience - their resilience and determination is something that I have carried with me on my training runs, and will on the big day too!"
Ruth set herself an ambitious fundraising target of £2,000 - but in a remarkable show of support after combining both her online and offline donations, she is now just a few pounds away from doubling it. Reaching this milestone would be an incredible achievement, helping NYAS continue its vital work supporting, safeguarding and empowering care-experienced children, young people and vulnerable adults.
Funds raised will make a tangible difference:
£15 could fund a call to the NYAS Helpline, giving a child access to confidential support and guidance.
£30 could cover the cost for a volunteer and their match to meet and do an exciting activity together, giving a young person access to a consistent and reliable role model and friend.
£50 could enable NYAS to raise a child in care’s voice through advocacy and participation work.
"I have two wishes - to raise as much money as I can so the children supported by NYAS can have an Independent Visitor and access funds so they can have fun and experience things which would otherwise not be possible. And, that I enjoy the marathon experience, run it the best I can with the supoort of my running coach Tamara and my family and friends - proving that women in their 50s can take on epic challenges!"
With the finish line in sight - both with her fundraising target, and with marathon day on the horizon - every contribution now could help Ruth push her total over this incredible milestone.
If you are able to support Ruth, now is the moment to help her go even further.
