Rachel Batten

Youth engagement co-ordinator Rachel Batten is travelling to Thailand at the end of November to work with Burmese refugee children who have fled from persecution and torture.

Rachel said:
"For me, this truly is an opportunity of a lifetime. The work I do on a day to day basis with local young people really is incredibly rewarding, but to see first hand the sheer poverty and atrocity of every day life for a Burmese child, and then watching their smile light up at the sound of music or the safety of childhood games will be unforgettable."



Rachel is hoping to raise £1,500 for The CRED Foundation with a fundraising night at Tom's Bar on November 21.

Rachel explained:
“The CRED Foundation partners with people in pursuing 'Justice for the Poor'. Working alongside four groundbreaking international projects: two in Ethiopia, one in India, and one in Colombia. They're all run by local people, and are a completely non-profit making organisation – so all your support, either by coming along to the gig on the 21st or sponsoring me on my justgiving page will all make such a massive difference, and to those that really need it the most.”
 
"My co-workers, friends and family have all been very generous and I hope other people in the town will sponsor me if they can. Even a few pounds will make a huge difference and mean CRED and its partners can continue their invaluable work supporting vulnerable displaced people such as those currently fleeing Burma."

Rachel is well known in Eastbourne for her work with young people, and is hoping the local community, both in Eastbourne, Brighton and afar will support her in her voluntary work in Thailand.

The fundraiser takes place from 8pm to 4am at Tom’s Bar, Prince Albert St, Brighton on November 21.

Recommended entry on the door will be £4 which will go towards the trip.

To donate directly visit:
www.justgiving.com/thailand2009