The Alpkit Foundation was delighted to be invited to this years Cromford Mills Adventure Weekend. Celebrating its 250th year Arkwrights famous water powered mill, a worlds first in its day, provided a stunning backdrop to the canoeing, climbing and hiking activities over the bank holiday weekend.
As a charity that is working to bring down barriers that prevent people getting into and experiencing the positive impact of time spent outdoors we knew it was going to be a great opportunity to put some of our ideas into practice.
Working with local outdoor activity provider Pure Outdoor we funded navigation taster sessions and guided walks in the local area.
We made these free of charge, and offered places primarily to local walking groups, charities and individuals in the educational and carer spaces. By giving the skills and confidence to this army of passionate grass root activists we believe we can reach those who will benefit most.
Over on the Cromford Canal local charity Paddle Peak ran free canoe taster sessions. Added inspiration came in the form of guest appearances by olympians Adam Burgess and Liam Heath fresh off the back of Tokyo 2020.
Local events like this only happen because of the goodwill of the volunteers that give up their time to share their passions and learnings. For Paddle Peak the event has sewn the seeds for regular Tuesday night kids canoeing sessions on the canal.
Many thanks to Alpkit Foundation volunteers Fionn and Malcolm for giving up their bank holiday weekend and Ollie from Pure Outdoor for his innate sense of direction and energy.
If you are trying to take your own skill set to the next level look out for more School of Adventure courses. We run them throughout the year from our stores around the country with local providers. Many of these are heavily subsidised by the Foundation. And of course if you are looking for funding or equipment to make your own difference just drop us an application through our site.