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In the sunny Airport Race around Hamburg Airport on 3 September 2017, former steps volunteers covered 16 kilometres for steps for children. David and Viktoria Drabe took part in the race together with Barbara Atorf (volunteer helpers in Gobabis/Namibia in 2014 and 2015/16 respectively) and some of their friends. The run proved to be a platform for a happy reunion in Hamburg with old acquaintances from NRW. The solidarity from their former volunteer days was still palpable, when they cared for children from the slums in Gobabis. Achieving personal bests was rather secondary. The enjoyment of running and cheering on the participants were the focus. Even the youngest supporter was there at just under 2 months old and attracted attention. The course was challenging, but the steps alumni and their friends ran to the finish together.

Last year saw the first alumni meet-up in Hamburg with many volunteers who had helped with the steps projects in Namibia. They happily exchanged their unique experiences with one another. This already led to initial ideas for further activities; the enthusiasm of our former volunteers is spreading.

New initiatives are already planned to raise awareness for steps and collect sponsor funds. Joint activities with the Hamburg alumni group are also to follow. Initial plans for taking part in fun runs or a pancake sale on Pancake Day (13 February 2018) have already been considered. Supporters are warmly welcome and can contact the office on 040/ 38902788 or by email at info@stepsforchildren.de.

Many thanks to our energetic runners for this fantastic performance at the Airport Race. You are top class and we are delighted by your dynamic input for steps.

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