Do Something Different to support World Mental Health Day 2019

Join the Team Orange Family!

October 10^th is World Mental Health Day 2019 and this year, Penny Appeal are speaking up to raise awareness of mental health issues in our communities and speaking out to let our brothers and sisters know that they are not alone.

In the UK, approximately 1 in every 4 people suffer with mental health issues throughout the year, and many of them feel as though they are suffering alone. This doesn’t have to be the case though, speaking about your feelings and sharing your thoughts with family, friends or anyone else your trust can make a world of difference. If you feel like you’re struggling with your mental health heath, one way you could get help is by joining Team Orange and volunteering for Penny Appeal. Volunteering is a great way to get out of your regular routine, meet new people and help others. Putting yourself in a position where you can do some good in the world can make you feel amazing and help you deal with the issues you’re facing.

Another great way to maintain good mental health is by signing up to take on a challenge with Team Orange and raise money for the less fortunate in the process! Exercise has been proven to improve low mood and reduce anxieties, even just 10 minutes of brisk walking can improve a person’s mental alertness, energy and disposition. There are plenty of challenges to join, so whether you like to bike, jog, jump or climb, there is something for everyone. 

This year we’re raising awareness a little differently, we worked with YOU!

Some of our amazing Team Orange volunteers have stepped up and provided us with some stories of their volunteer experiences!

Team Orange Opens Up

Anonymous

“I've been a part of the Team Orange family now for about four years. I can honestly say they have been the best years of my life. I was catapulted into this completely new place with new people and ideas that I'd never even thought about. It has allowed me to be more confident within myself, understand perspective a whole lot more and be so much more grateful for the things I have.

I've trekked up mountains, skydived, shaved my head, raising more than £1,000 for personal projects that I was so passionate about and still am to this day. Team Orange has become a whole part of me and I'm so hopeful that I can carry on for the foreseeable future because the work you guys do, I've seen how that changes lives.”

Selina

“I signed up to a Penny Appeal challenge last year. Everest Base Camp was my first challenge in December. I then took part in the Palestine Marathon in March and this December, I’m heading to Kilimanjaro with Penny Appeal. The challenges and fundraising pushed me into raising money for worthwhile causes. Heading to the refugee camp in Palestine was an eye-opening experience but I got to see first-hand where the money donated was going. To me it was all about trying to make a difference in whatever way I can. One of the best things is the friends that I have made through Penny Appeal and taking part in these challenges.

Within our community, there are certain pressures that a lot of us face because of family expectations. This pressure can sometimes be difficult to deal with. I’ve met some incredible people at these challenges from all walks of life, ages, backgrounds and yet they all understand the pressures that a lot of us face. It’s reassuring to know that I’m not the only one going through this and there are many people dealing with cultural expectations.”

Grace

“I think volunteering is honestly one of the best things, for me personally. Knowing that I have helped someone because of such a small action I maybe have done but to them it’s created such a big impact in their lives, really makes it all worthwhile.

But it’s not only that, it’s about the people around you. Everyone’s like family and always there for each other no matter what, regardless of the problem.”

Ibrahim

“I think being a volunteer for Penny Appeal is awesome because it opens up so many great opportunities such as learning and teaching others about Penny Appeal and what they provide. We have everything here, food, water, clothes, a roof over our heads to shelter us from rain and a warm bed to sleep in. Unfortunately, those refugees don’t have any of this, they have to walk for miles for clean water. Not only does volunteering look great on your CV, but it’s something you can share with people and get them involved.”
 

JOIN THE FAMILY

Why not try something new? Apply to volunteer with Team Orange here – we have so many places to be filled all over the UK this winter and we would LOVE you to join us! Our Team Orange family and volunteers will make you feel welcome from the minute you apply!

Are you feeling daring? Appl to take on a challenge here – we’ve got some amazing challenges coming up this year and next year! Sign up today!

This mental health day you are not alone and with Penny Appeal, you’ll never have to be.

Welcome to the family.