YOUR VOLUNTEER
Name: Adrian Smith. Which organisation are you involved with?: Open Doors UK. What does the organisation do?: Supports churches in countries around the world where there is discrimination and persecution to provide aid and support to those who are suffering. How did you become a volunteer?: Started receiving the magazine in the mid-80s but became actively involved around seven years ago. Which projects have you been involved with recently?: In September 2015 I visited Iraq to meet with partner organisations and visit a number of refugee camps and projects. In mid-May I travel to Lebanon to meet Syrian refugees and people who are supporting them as well as run a marathon to raise money. What do you enjoy most about doing this?: I get to hear about and meet people who go through the most terrible things, many of whom show inspirational responses and realise I can make a small difference. It also makes you realise that other than by an accident of birth it could be you. What is your favourite place in Rossendale?: I like to walk up to Brex Heights from Bacup and also the views across Manchester from above Whitworth. Ideally how would you spend every day?: Every day is different but I always like to spend some time still with God. What was the best holiday you have been on?: I lived in Africa for a number of years – so visiting a number of game reserves off the beaten track, sleeping under the stars and travelling along the Garden Route in South Africa. If money were no object what would you do?: Give as much away as I could to make a difference. What one piece of advice would you give?: I’m not great at advice but probably God has always got our best at heart. What was your first job?: Apart from being a paper boy, my first proper job was working with an environmental education charity. What is on your CD / MP3 player?: Largely Christian music – I love groups like Casting Crowns and Matt Redman. And I still like classic 70s and 80s stuff. What is your favourite TV show?: I don’t watch much TV but if I do, the news, football and documentaries. What are you reading at the moment?: A book on the history of the Church. What/who is your biggest inspiration?: People who live positively for God whatever the opposition. Adrian will be taking part in the Muskathlon from May 15 to 20. It is an extreme fundraising and sporting challenge to raise funds for victims of extreme persecution in many parts of the world including Syria and Iraq. He has been training hard and is aiming to raise £10k. Adrian will also be meeting people who have suffered persecution for their faith and who are benefiting from the wonderful work of Open Doors. If you would like to sponsor Adrian on his £10k fundraising marathon visit his Justgiving page www justgiving.com/fundraising/adriansmith60 Open Doors works in over 50 countries providing practical support like food, medicine, housing, clean water and education as well as micro-loans to start businesses to persecuted Christians worldwide. They also provide Bibles, Christian literature, training, literacy programmes and trauma training.