Dame Kelly Holmes' charity to inspire next generation in Devon
The Dame Kelly Holmes (DKH) Legacy Trust’s team of world-class athletes will be in Plymouth this June to help inspire the next generation.
The double Olympic champion’s charity is running its ‘Get on Track’ programme, where elite athletes mentor young people to get them into employment, education or training, as well as motivating them to lead healthier lifestyles and take part in sport on a regular basis. The DKH Legacy Trust will be working alongside Active Devon and the Plymouth YMCA to help support the group.
Paralympic Swimmer David Hill, Olympic Swimmer Cassie Patten and Olympic Pistol Shooter Georgina Geikie will lead a variety of activities which will support the young people to organise a family-focused community event at the end of June and ultimately prepare them for employment.
Dame Kelly Holmes said: “There’s no denying that these are tough times for young people, and this is when the impact of an athlete role model can be so inspiring. Olympians, Paralympians, and world champions know what it takes to overcome adversity and still have the will to succeed, not only in sport, but in life too. My charity’s athletes use their unique skills to help young people make positive changes in their lives. I’m delighted we’re able to make a difference in Devon.”
The programme begins this week and will take participants through activities and workshops that will build their confidence, help them overcome fears and utilise opportunities and will support them to gain qualifications such as a First Aid qualification and a Sports Leaders level 1 Certificate.
The young people will be expected to work together to produce a Community Games event, taking responsibility for everything from staffing to budgeting. The programme even offers careers advice including help with writing CVs, advice on dressing for interviews to actual mock interviews.
The young people will come together later in the year to celebrate their achievements and ongoing support is given to help them into education, training or employment.
