Jacky's First Hand Experience
After taking part in our first community build in Cambodia, Jacky King was so inspired by her experience that she signed up to take part in our Nepal build 2008 and Vietnam trek 2009!

Click on the link on the right to listen to Jacky's interview on BBC radio Oxford to find out more about her experiences with ActionAid and how taking part has changed her own life and the lives of the people her sponsorship has has helped.

Sue's First Hand Experience
Superstar fundraiser, Sue Pengilley, is about to embark on her fifth First Hand Experience with ActionAid! Read why she is hooked and how much she gets out of supporting ActionAid, meeting the people she is helping and seeing our work in action!

Why did you sign up for your first event? I had had a tough year with three bereavements and my back giving way but after a few months at home I was climbing the walls and wanted to do something. I saw the China trek and signed up immediately. It gave me a goal to work towards and after taking part I was hooked!

Tell us the highlights. How do I choose! The great friends I made, the places I never dreamed I would visit and seeing the difference the money people donate makes to people's lives.

What's special about First Hand Experiences? They are really well organised and walking with local guides off the tourist track, you see and learn about the real country, culture and communities. There is also great comaraderie and knowing you have raised money to help people adds a real feel good factor and sense of achievement.

What would you say to others thinking of signing up? Go for it! The fundraising is great fun when you get into the swing of it and at the end of the day you will have a real experience to remember for the rest of your life.

Our other supporter experiences

"It's difficult to explain the enormous impact of the trip. Every day was a new adventure with stunning scenery and fantastic people making for a wonderful experience." Anne Mills, India 2008

"A truly amazing trip! A great way to see the world, take on a challenge and experience the difference that ActionAid funding has on poor communities. The trip may only last ten days but it really will change your life." Kat Collis, Peru 2008

"The connection that is formed between you, the project and the community is one that will stay for you for a long time - a truly rewarding experience." Deborah Frais, Cambodia 2007

photo : ©ActionAid