Latest news with #volunteerwork
The Sun
4 days ago
- The Sun
Mum of Brit, 25, who vanished in Sardinia a year ago says she's living through ‘never-ending nightmare'
THE mother of a Brit man who went missing in Sardinia a year ago has said she's been "broken" since his disappearance. Michael Frison suddenly vanished on the Italian island, where he had just arrived to do volunteer work on a farm, in July 2024. 5 5 A year on from his disappearance, Michael's mother Cristina Pittalis has told Sky News of her anguish over what happened to him. "I'm trying not to lose my mind," she said as she recounted the last time she heard his voice. "He was in a rush but absolutely clear in his speech, I didn't detect any confusion in his state of mind." Michael, 26, vanished on 13 July 2024, just the day after he arrived on the Mediterranean island. Cristina, who is from Somerset, told the broadcaster: "Human beings do not disappear from the face of earth without leaving traces unless … something extremely bad happened to them." Her son had reportedly gone for a walk, and returned in a confused state and showing signs of heatstroke. After this, he went for a second walk - from which he never returned. His clothes and trainers were later found close by. Michael's mum told Sky News is was "extremely unlikely" he would suffer heatstroke as he had lived on the island before. It would also be "completely out of character" to wander off barefoot and leave his belongings behind, she added. Terrifying vids show flash floods surging through Italian towns leaving 1 dead She has now moved to Sardinia along with her other son, 11, in an attempt to look for Michael. Cristina, who is originally from Sassari in the island's northwest, said she is "extremely worried because there are no traces of Michael". Although a local investigation into his whereabouts is ongoing, Michael's mum wants Interpol to step in to help with the search. "It's a never-ending nightmare," she said. "There's no real accountability... I am here and I am broken." Cristina said that "during the past 12 months, the area was constantly searched, through woodland, caves, mountains" - but nothing was found. She is also calling for a woman from Jersey who is believed to have been with Michael in the days leading up to his disappearance to come forward with any available information. One of her friends previously set up a GoFundMe to help with the search that raised more than £10,000. The money was aimed at supporting various costs including travel, legal fees and awareness campaigns. Cristina further told Sky of the impact Michael's disappearance has had on his younger half-brother Emanuele. Emanuele's father died back in 2017. "He's devastated," she said. "The three of us were extremely close, the two of them, they used to do everything together." She added that for him "it's horrible, he lost his father and now he lost his brother." 5
Sky News
4 days ago
- Sky News
Michael Frison: Mother of British man missing in Sardinia describes 'never-ending nightmare'
The mother of a British man who has gone missing on Sardinia says she is living a "never-ending nightmare" - and has called for Interpol to intervene. Cristina Pittalis told Sky News she has been "broken" since her 26-year-old son Michael Frison disappeared in the northwest of the Italian island on 13 July 2024. "I'm trying not to lose my mind," said Ms Pittalis as she recounted the last time she heard her son's voice. "He was in a rush but absolutely clear in his speech, I didn't detect any confusion in his state of mind." The mother-of-two from Somerset added: "Human beings do not disappear from the face of earth without leaving traces unless […] something extremely bad happened to them." Mr Frison went missing the day after he arrived on a farm where he was meant to do volunteer work. He reportedly went for a walk and returned in a state of confusion and symptoms of heatstroke. He then went on a second walk and never returned. His clothes, including his trainers, were found nearby. His mother believes it would have been "completely out of character" for her son to wander off barefoot and leave all his personal belongings behind. She also said it was "extremely unlikely" he suffered a heatstroke as he had previously lived on the island and was used to its climate. Ms Pittalis, who has moved to Sardinia with her other 11-year-old son in a bid to find Mr Frison, said she was "extremely worried because there are no traces of Michael". She said "during the past 12 months, the area was constantly searched, through woodland, caves, mountains" but there was "absolutely nothing". Ms Pittalis is originally from Sassari in the northwest of Sardinia but had lived in the UK since 1966 until she moved to Sardinia following her son's disappearance. A local criminal investigation launched into Mr Frison's disappearance is ongoing, but Ms Pittalis has called for Interpol - the international crime-fighting organisation - to step in to try to find her son. "It's a never-ending nightmare," she said. "There's no real accountability... I am here and I am broken." She is also calling for a woman from Jersey, who was with Mr Frison in the days before his disappearance, to come forward with any information she may have. Ms Pittalis spoke of the toll that Mr Frison's disappearance has taken on his younger half-brother Emanuele, whose father died in 2017. "He's devastated," she said. "The three of us were extremely close, the two of them, they used to do everything together. "For Mani [Emanuele] it's horrible, he lost his father and now he lost his brother."
Zawya
01-07-2025
- Politics
- Zawya
Federal Youth Authority launches ‘Youth Social Missions Programme'
The initiative embodies the UAE's dedication to the culture of volunteer work and sustainable development. H.E. Khalid Al Nuaimi: The UAE remains committed to supporting humanitarian causes around the world. This programme reflects the leadership's vision to empower a generation capable of making a positive impact, both locally and internationally. Osaka, Japan – The Federal Youth Authority (FYA) has launched the 'Youth Social Missions Programme', a new initiative that embodies the UAE's commitment to championing volunteer work and sustainable development, designed to prepare young Emiratis to join the country's social missions around the world, including humanitarian, developmental, and cultural taskforces. The programme aims to develop a skilled national workforce through training workshops geared towards fostering social responsibility among Emirati youth, in line with the 'Community and Values' pillar of the National Youth Agenda 2031. Launched from Japan, this ambitious programme seeks to empower young Emiratis to represent their country in missions that are a national priority, as well as to instil a deep-rooted culture of volunteer work and social responsibility, reflecting the UAE's authentic values. Participants in the programme can look forward to developing specialised skills through dedicated training courses, which enables them to engage effectively in the field and make a tangible impact. Moreover, the programme serves to reinforce global crisis response efforts, and contributes towards achieving the sustainable development goals and enhancing the UAE's cultural exchange and constructive soft power on the international stage through active youth participation. Making an impact His Excellency Khaled Al Nuaimi, Director of the Federal Youth Authority, said: 'The UAE has consistently strived to champion humanitarian causes, embodying the vision of our Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who instilled in the people of the UAE the values of generosity and solidarity with global communities during crises. This unwavering commitment to humanitarian work has positioned the UAE as one of the most impactful nations in providing aid to communities in need, offering medical and food support, and establishing development projects across the globe.' 'Launching the 'Youth Social Missions Programme' marks a significant step forward towards reinforcing the UAE's critical role in supporting volunteer work and humanitarian aid,' H.E. Al Nuaimi added. 'Engaging our youth in these noble efforts enhances their role as influential global forces for change and community support. They are a fundamental driving force behind the National Youth Agenda 2031, which aims for them to be active contributors to society, upholding Emirati values and principles, and serving as true ambassadors for relief work aimed at overcoming humanitarian and social challenges.' 'This programme truly reflects our leadership's aspirations to cultivate an inspiring young generation, capable of making a positive impact in their communities and around the world for the betterment of humanity as a whole,' H.E. concluded. Active roles in a changing world The 'Youth Social Missions Programme' is designed to empower Emirati youth to undertake impactful roles across international humanitarian, developmental, and cultural spheres. The 'Humanitarian Missions' component will focus on delivering urgent aid to disaster and crisis-affected regions, including food, medical supplies, psychological support, and participation in relief efforts. Meanwhile, 'Developmental Missions' will concentrate on implementing sustainable projects to enhance quality of life, such as school construction, educational support, and enhancing living conditions, alongside participation in environmental initiatives like afforestation, beach clean-ups, and addressing climate change impacts. Lastly, 'Cultural Missions' aim to foster cultural exchange and showcase Emirati identity by organising events, educational programmes, and initiatives that promote understanding and communication among diverse cultures. Benefits and opportunities Over the next five years, the programme targets young individuals aged 21 to 35 who have a passion for humanitarian work, a desire to infuse values of solidarity and social responsibility, and a keen interest in raising awareness to support communities in need and participate in international relief missions. It enables participants to acquire a deep understanding of global issues and humanitarian needs, fostering greater international cooperation and tolerance. Furthermore, the programme provides opportunities for the youth to develop effective communication, leadership, and time management skills, boosting their self-confidence and adaptability to diverse and evolving work environments. This, in effect, enhances their ability to navigate challenging circumstances, and contribute to making a positive social impact through development projects and humanitarian causes. The 'Youth Social Missions Programme' offers a range of unique benefits, including granting participants the prestigious title of 'Humanitarian Work Ambassadors' and contributing to the creation of media content documenting their experiences. It will also facilitate partnerships with specialised international organisations in humanitarian and community work. Participants will receive accredited certificates and have access to genuine opportunities to engage in fieldwork, in coordination with partner entities. The programme includes workshops, field visits, meetings and discussions with experts in humanitarian work, and practical training, as well as research and studies aimed at preparing the youth for effective participation in international humanitarian missions, opening new horizons for them to join volunteer and relief work efforts. It will also feature global forums to celebrate young Emiratis' contributions towards humanitarian work, in addition to involving them in national and regional field missions to support communities in crisis situations.
Yahoo
06-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
North Georgia-based nonprofit Builders for Christ constructs foster home in Calhoun County
EDISON – Wayne Trundle gazed up at the tall wooden frame of a soon-to-be vaulted living room. Behind him, the sound of hammers cracked against long plywood strips as sawdust flew into the humid air, swirling with the swarms of southwest Georgia gnats. It was the first week of June, and for Builders for Christ, a nonprofit that does construction work for church organizations, that meant the start of its major annual project. 'A lot of the guys come every year, and it's like a big family reunion,' Trundle, the project manager, said. 'We look forward to seeing each other, catching up. It's amazing to see with the volunteer help and shared knowledge what will get done here.' The eclectic crew was made up of about 70 people, from ages 5 to 85: electricians, construction workers, retirees, businessmen, preachers and quasi-engineers. They traveled from all around Georgia and Alabama in trucks, camper vans and RVs, landing at Rehoboth Ranch Ministries in Calhoun County. This year's major project was to construct a full-time home where a Lee County family could raise their children and foster children. The project is named 'Welcome Home Rehoboth Ranch.' The completed foster home will be a part of Rehoboth Ranch Ministries, which also has a men's rehabilitation program for individuals struggling with addiction. Unfolding a large blueprint, Trundle points to the home's eight bedrooms, industrial-sized laundry room and large, open living space. This first group of 70 is tasked with completing the home's framing by the end of the week. Separate crews for mechanics, electric, drywall and more will follow. On Sunday, a small group laid the foundations for the rest of the week. By Wednesday, the house's framed walls stood tall, and a group of men, and even one child, began to lay wood sheets for the roof. 'We don't require any knowledge as far as building or construction,' Trundle said. 'We've got plenty of guys that know how to do this. We just need hands.' The hands come in both small and large sizes. Seniors, retired from construction, wear tool belts and hats with sun shades as they saw away at lumber. Small children carry long pieces of lumber – a boy on each end. Many, like Trundle, are retired after decades spent working in construction. Some of them, like 18-year-old Kyle Sumners, grew up on construction sites. He was 10 when he first accompanied his grandpa, who had learned about Builders for Christ when they did work on his own church, to a project. At 10 years old, Trundle mainly helped his grandpa in the tool trailer and toted lumber. At 18, his favorite job is setting trusses and decking the roof, a part of the project he now leads. 'From a little boy, I've always loved fiddling around, working on stuff, helping my papa or dad with something,' Sumners said. 'It's fun to me, watching something start out as nothing, and by the time you're done, it's something.' It's now a family affair for the Sumners. This year, they traveled six hours from their home in Wolfsburg, Ala., to Edison in their grandparents' motor home. They're 'camping' out along with several other families on the Rehoboth Ranch property. The rest of the Builders for Christ are scattered throughout Calhoun and Randolph counties at rentals or in churches kind enough to open their doors. Bobby Lunceford, the nonprofit's president, said not only do the builders volunteer their time, but they pay to be there. A $125 payment goes to groceries and insurance. They don't make any money. 'We don't have money left over at the end, and we don't want any,' Lunceford said. Sumners said it makes him happy to know that his hard work is for other people. 'Knowing that you come out building something, and it's gonna be done within a week – to put up a whole entire house or church for someone … it's pretty incredible,' he said. The future tenants of the home should not let the speedy work concern them. Lunceford said in 30 years, the builders have never failed an inspection. The builders work from 6 a.m. until 6 p.m., rising early to eat breakfast together, pausing for lunches and dinners. The team ate with Sean and Melissa, the future heads of the household. (The couple asked that their last name be left out of the story to protect their children's privacy as they continue to foster.) Sean said that they got to share their story with the group, the same one he and Melissa shared with The Albany Herald about one year ago, when the space, now filled by their future home's frame, was just a grassy hilltop. Right now, he and Melissa are fostering four kids along with raising the six kids they've adopted. They say they hope to be able to add two more to the family with the added space. 'We have mixed emotions,' Sean said. 'We're humbled and grateful that people are taking the time to come out and build it – the trust the Lord has in us in providing his people and resources.' He said watching the progress, from a slab on Sunday, to a structure with walls and a roof just days later, was exciting. Melissa said she's ready for the slower pace the countryside offers, a space with land and animals where the children can play and grow. She's also excited for more room in the house, and the industrial sized laundry room and pantry. 'With large families, I don't think people think about how much it takes,' she said. 'The washers, as you can imagine, are always running.' Once the first round of work is completed, the family will have a ceremony to write scriptures on the framing. Sean said if funds allow, they hope to move in to the house in time to host Thanksgiving dinner there. 'We're excited to move forward,' Melissa said. 'We're overwhelmed.' Wayne Trundle gazes up at the framework. Staff Photo: Lucille LanniganBuilders for Christ volunteers are all ages. Staff Photo: Lucille LanniganThree volunteers measure out plywood. Staff Photo: Lucille LanniganWelcome Home Rehoboth Ranch on Sunday, June 1. Staff Photo: Lucille LanniganWelcome Home Rehoboth Ranch on Wednesday. Staff Photo: Lucille LanniganVolunteers pause for a break on the roof. Staff Photo: Lucille LanniganKyle Sumners carries a long piece of plywood. Staff Photo: Lucille LanniganThe volunteers wore shirts representing the religious nonprofit as they worked. Staff Photo: Lucille Lannigan
CTV News
31-05-2025
- General
- CTV News
London police officer recognized for community activism
From left to right: PAO President Mark Baxter, Community Role Model Award Winner: Detective Gary Bezaire of the London Police Service, and Gareth Harris, London Police Association President, taken May 29, 2025 at the Police Association of Ontario President's Banquet & Awards Ceremony in Ottawa. (Source: Courtesy of Police Association of Ontario/Dave Chan) The Police Association of Ontario (PAO) has honoured a London Police Services officer with the Community Role Model award in recognition for his extensive community involvement and volunteer work. London Police Services' Dectective Gary Bezaire was recognized and honoured at the Police Association of Ontario's 93rd Annual Meeting and Convention, which took place in Ottawa from May 27 to 30. Detective Bezaire was recognized for volunteer work with the Dad Club of London and the London and Middlesex Community Housing Corporation, having raised over $200,000 for local initiatives. 053125_PAO awards Gary Bezaire London police service Detective Gary Bezaire of the London Police Service, taken May 29, 2025 at the Police Association of Ontario President's Banquet & Awards Ceremony in Ottawa. (Source: Courtesy of Police Association of Ontario/Dave Chan) (Dave Chan/Dave Chan) His work in homicide and human trafficking investigations in the London area have also contributed to his continuing commitment to his community. Other honourees included two officers from Hamilton police, as well as an OPP officer from Russel County.
