Hiking Club: Welfare & Charity Officer

Hi, I'm Saanvi! You may have seen me on our hikes, I'm one of the club's walk leaders and a qualified first aider, so member wellbeing is something I care about.

As a psychology student, I understand the importance of mental wellbeing, and I am eager to ensure every member feels welcomed and supported within the club, whether you're a seasoned hiker or just finding your feet.

I would like to organise charity walks and challenges in aid of organisations that support the environment as well as student well-being, like the Wildlife Trusts and Student Minds. In addition, I hope to run fundraising events such as quiz nights and bake sales throughout the year.

As hikers, we're lucky to enjoy the outdoors, let's give something back! I'd love the chance to make a difference in a club that already means a lot to me.

Hi, I'm Peter, a second year and current walk leader/ first aider with the hiking society. I have greatly enjoyed my time in the club this past year and hope to be able to contribute to its growth in the upcoming year as the new welcome and charity officer. 

For next year, if elected, I would want to continue to organise charity hikes throughout the year; making these more varied in scope and difficulty to allow all members to be able to take part without it feeling too easy or hard for them on the day. I would also like to increase the number of other charity initiatives that the club runs, expanding from the current occasional bake sale to larger charity nights, for example a charity card game night or food drive.

I believe that as the largest club at UCL right now, hiking club is in a uniquely placed to do a lot of good both internally for its members and for the larger community, and I hope if elected to be able to use this fact to make our club as good as it can be. I look forward to (possibly) working with you next year.

I might’ve needed a walking stick on my first (last) hike BUT I promise I won’t need a crutch if you vote me in as Welfare & Charity Officer!! Hiking Club is one of the best ways to escape the chaos of London and spend time with great people. While the hikes are amazing, what really makes the club special is how welcoming and friendly everyone is. I’m running for Welfare & Charity Officer because I want to help keep that supportive atmosphere going and make sure everyone feels included and valued. I’d love to organise wellbeing initiatives that encourage people to look out for each other, as well as charity events that bring the club together while supporting good causes. I’ve had a great experience in the club so far, and I’d love to help make sure future members feel just as welcomed and supported.

I am standing for the position of Welfare & Charity Officer because I care deeply about making a space where everyone feels supported and welcomed; also providing an opportunity to everyone to enjoy the outdoors confidently. Hiking and being outdoors is proven to have a positive impact on wellbeing and I want to ensure our club actively promotes that whilst also giving back through meaningful charity initiatives. I would love to help create a culture where no one feels left behind and where we use our shared passion for the outdoors to make a difference beyond the trail. 

I also want to be someone members feel comfortable approaching, whether they are new to hiking, facing challenges or just need a friendly check-in. I would love to work closely with the committee to ensure trips are inclusive, accessible and supportive for all experience levels.

On the charity side, I would love to organise fundraising hikes, collaboration with local causes and creative events that bring us together while making a real impact. Whether that is supporting environmental organisations or mental health initiatives, I want our club to give back in ways that reflect our values.

Most importantly, I would listen to members and make sure their voices shape what we do. I am approachable, organised and genuinely care about the wellbeing of our community. If elected, I will put energy and compassion into making this club not just a great place to hike, but a great place to belong.

_{Hello hikers! 🏔️☀️🌿}

_{My name is Samuel, and I am running to be your Welfare and Charity officer for the UCL Hiking Club. I know that like me, many of you have hiked from a young age, and that the UCL hiking society has brought to you a way to continue this hobby as you study at uni. The UCL Hiking Society builds friendships and fosters connections through the shared bonding of trekking through mud.} 

_{As Welfare Officer I would prioritise that everyone feels included in the Hiking Society. The UCL Hiking Society is a place for everyone - whether you are a beginning hiker or an experienced mountaineer - and my priority would be to ensure that this community retains its open and inclusive character that we are proud of.}

_{We can use our love of the outdoors to give back. If elected, I would arrange charity hikes in support for a good cause, and maintain and increase fundraising initiatives. This is how we can make positive impact at the UCL Hiking Society, within UCL and beyond.}

_{See you on the trail!}

_Samuel