Raleigh Expedition is back!
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We are excited to be re-launching Raleigh International under new ownership – kicking things off with expeditions in two countries, including a new adventure in South Africa. As we embark on this new chapter in our 45-year history, our website has also been refreshed
Since Raleigh has been acquired by Impact Travel Group, you may be wondering if Raleigh is still, well, Raleigh and what the aims and goals of the organisation are. This blog will answer some of your questions about the Raleigh International of 2023.
What happened to Raleigh International Trust?
As many of you know, in May 2022, Raleigh International Trust sadly went into voluntary liquidation and ceased operations having been badly hit by the impact on global travel during the Covid-19 pandemic.
In July 2022, the Impact Travel Group acquired the Raleigh International brand to ensure that a ‘Raleigh Expedition’ could once again become a rite of passage for young people with a thirst for adventure and a desire to do good. While we can’t comment on change or answer questions about what happened before this acquisition, we can reassure you of our absolute commitment to respecting the Raleigh brand’s heritage and legacy going forwards.
Who is the Impact Travel Group?
The Impact Travel Group (ITG) is an alliance of nine education and experiential brands committed to transformative travel experiences with cultural and environmental impact. Its brands include African Impact, Kaya Responsible Travel and World Endeavors, which are ethically well-aligned with Raleigh International, which is now part of this alliance.
What happened to those who lost money when Raleigh went into liquidation, can they get it back from ITG?
Sadly not. This money was paid to Raleigh International Trust, which ceased to exist when it went into liquidation.
Volunteers who had historically registered and paid something under the previous ownership Raleigh International Trust but were then unable to complete their expedition, will be offered a discounted travel experience with ITG in the future.
For more information e-mail info@raleighinternational.org.
A new beginning for Raleigh
Raleigh International is no longer registered as a charity, however, we are still 100% committed to creating a long-lasting impact and working with young people to develop their skills and confidence.
Since its founding in 1978, Raleigh has continuously evolved, constantly adapting to new ideas and challenges. However, it has always been dedicated to supporting young people to create change for themselves, their communities, and the world.
We are committed to continuing this legacy. Our vision is simple: a world where young people have the skills and confidence to build a fair, inclusive, green planet for everyone. We will achieve this by creating life-enhancing journeys and transformational experiences for young people through international volunteering. These experiences all make a positive, long-lasting impact in the communities where we work.
What is a Raleigh Expedition?
An Expedition is a journey taken by a group of people with a purpose. The purpose of a Raleigh Expedition is to provide platforms and opportunities for young people to develop themselves and become global citizens.
Raleigh Expedition is a truly unique international volunteer experience for young people. Unlike other programmes, volunteers participate in different projects (community, environment and adventure), equip themselves with new skills and immerse themselves in the communities and cultures.
Where are we running Expeditions?
We are thrilled to be partnering with Raleigh Costa Rica, and will be introducing a new Expedition based in Kruger, South Africa. The first expedition will take place in June 2023
What are the benefits of Raleigh Expedition for young people?
We passionately believe in the power of experiential travel to shape attitudes, lives and our world. Through a Raleigh Expedition, young people gain new knowledge and unique experiences. These support University and job applications and help young people develop character and invaluable life skills.
Raleigh Alumni from over the years have gone on to form charities, take action in politics, fight for the planet and even take to the stars! We can’t wait to see what the next generation of Raleigh venturers will achieve.
What long-lasting impact will Raleigh International make?
Raleigh contributes to achieving the Global Goals for Sustainable Development (SDGs). These are 17 Global Goals the United Nations General Assembly set to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure everyone has peace and prosperity by 2030.
We work with young people, partners, and communities in two programmatic areas:
- Community projects
- Climate and conservation
Raleigh puts measurable aims and achievement evaluation processes for everything we do. This means we are consistently reviewing projects and implementing improvements to increase impact.
Need more information about Expedition?
Consultation call
Whether you have a specific question or want to discuss which Expedition is right for you, schedule a call with a member of the team at a time convenient to you.
Join an info event
On our monthly online info events, we’ll tell you all about Expedition. Have your questions answered, meet other volunteers and find out what Expedition is really like from an alumni.
Download a guide
Find out all about Raleigh International and Expedition in our helpful information guide.
