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Alpkit only exists because of our wild places and people that make them. Alpkit Foundation is our payback, our social dividend to protect the places we love for everyone to enjoy.

We give small awards to ordinary people doing extraordinary things that make the world a better place. You help every time you buy from Alpkit.

We’ve received 6,600 applications and given over 2000 awards to improve education, environment, diversity, mental health and participation in the outdoors. That benefits over 60,000 people altogether.

It’s humbling to see the effect that this has:

“Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.” Desmond Tutu

Thank you from us to all our customers that make this happen.

Donate or apply at alpkit.com/foundation

Woodland Gatherings

Just one of the 2,000 Alpkit Foundation awards is to Woodland Gatherings helping Ukrainian refugees coming to Sheffield and the Peak District.

As Ukrainian families began to arrive and find refuge in the Hope Valley area, Ruth Dixon wanted to use her Forest School and Wilderness Therapy skills to set up a regular opportunity in a beautiful woodland space for them and their host families to enjoy therapeutic and sociable time in nature.

“I really wanted to offer families throughout the Hope Valley a regular free ‘Woodland Gathering’ afternoon on the 1st Saturday of every month, hopefully with the view to continuing the project into 2023 and for as long as there is a need.”

Supported by volunteers from the local community, the activities are designed for all ages and abilities and include setting up camp, learning basic bush craft skills, campfire cooking, nature craft projects and an opportunity to explore some wilderness therapeutic approaches together.

Ruth looked to give her time and services for free but needed funding for extra resources and provision for transport to and from the woodland site if needed, so she approached the Alpkit Foundation for support.

With an award of £500, she has been able to provide regular opportunities for those new to the area feel welcomed and safe, benefitting whole families to create and nurture positive and supportive links within the community, connecting with nature and an opportunity to learn from each others’ culture.

“Thank you so much. It was amazing day full of positive emotions. You’re making people happy and relaxed, we really appreciate it and looking forward to seeing all of you again.”