Running for Retrak: Week 13

There is a committed group of Retrak supporters living in and around Brussels. They’re very active, working on a range of projects from planning a study day in the European Parliament on the subject of street children worldwide, to organising events like wine tastings, bake sales, fundraising concerts and school and church presentations. A highlight of the annual programme is centred on the Brussels 20k.

Every year, around 100 children up to the age of 11 take part in a fun run in Tervuren Park on the day before the 20k in Brussels. This year, it’s Saturday, May 25. A team of enthusiastic Retrak volunteers and parents from the English-speaking St Paul’s Church Fun Tots playgroup marshal, direct and cheer on the kids running various races according to age. Parents, carers and other family members turn out to support and it makes a wonderful sight in the park. The kids all get a medal, there are prizes for the winners in each age category, and an early supper of hot dogs, ice cream and juice is available at the end.

Each child pays an entry fee of €5 and they are encouraged to collect sponsor money – a well-known tradition in British and American circles. All the proceeds help Retrak’s work towards a world where no child is forced to live on the streets.

Given the nature of the expat community, the volunteer group is always looking for new recruits to join them. We would love to hear from you if you would like to raise money, join the community activities or get involved in advocacy or awareness-raising. If you’re currently not in paid employment while living in Brussels, Retrak is very keen to help you continue your professional development while volunteering, ensuring there are none of those nasty gaps in your CV. There are a range of activities, with no previous experience required and training always provided.

To register your children for the Fun Run at 15.00 on May 25, contact Laura Wiles. If you’d like to know more about the Retrak Brussels volunteer group, contact Ann Start. And to find out more about the St Paul’s Fun Tots playgroup, check out the church website. Hope to see you in Tervuren Park and at the 20k!