Highland teenager sets her sights on 'life-changing' African adventure to help Worldwide Vets make things better for animals
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A CARE experienced teenager living in Inverness is reaching out for support to make a “life-changing” trip.
Caitlin Goss (17) is raising money for a trip to Africa through a range of activities.
The teenager, who lives in care, has already scaled Scotland’s highest mountain as part of her effort to make a volunteering trip to Zimbabwe next July with Worldwide Vets.
Caitlin is targetting £6500 and so far through bake sales, quiz nights, football scratch cards and a fun day she has raised around £2500.
Caitlin, originally from Tain, said: “This trip will be a chance for me to see the world and experience different cultures. It will be a chance for me to step outside the life I know.
“I’d really appreciate any donations, no matter how small, people can make to help make sure I can go on the trip.”
The volunteering opportunity will see her on an African game reserve for a month where she will be learning about horse and stable management, conservation work, rehabilitation, removing snares, boundary patrols, and caring for orphaned African elephants.
Her love of horses started when she went into residential care in Inverness at 14.
Of her love of horses, she said: “They’re calming and emotionally intelligent. They gave me comfort and space away from people when I needed it most. I’m so excited about the idea of getting to spend more time with them.”
After speaking to staff in her unit she realised she had their support. She has been fundraising with Elaine Glen, a staff member, who’ll accompany her on the trip.
Caitlin is a member of Who Cares? Scotland, a membership organisation for care experienced people. Louise Hunter, CEO at Who Cares? Scotland, hailed the teenager’s drive and determination: “As one of our members, we are incredibly impressed by Caitlin’s drive and determination to take part in this amazing opportunity. We think it’s so important for Care Experienced individuals to have access to these once in a lifetime adventures.
"Caitlin’s commitment to fundraising to ensure she can go on this trip is admirable, and we hope people are able to donate and give her the extra help that she needs.”
To support Caitlin in her fundraising effort, see https://gofund.me/80ce2ec8
Need to know
- Worldwide Vets supports, funds and assists rescue centres and vet clinics around the world. For more information visit https://www.worldwidevets.com
- Who Cares? Scotland was established in 1978 and is Scotland’s only national independent membership organisation for Care Experienced people. Its strategic vision is to secure a lifetime of equality, respect and love for Care Experienced people in Scotland.
