On Sunday 13 July 2025, York Rotary’s annual Dragon Boat Challenge returned to the River Ouse. With 36 teams competing throughout the day, the event offered a lively mix of community spirit, music, food, and charitable causes.
Good Neighbours UK joined the North Bank gala area, where spectators could enjoy the races while visiting local charity stalls and taking part in hands-on activities. Our stand, decorated with colourful Chitenge fabric and paper fans, quickly became a favourite with families.
We offered two simple but popular activities that encouraged people to stop, chat, and learn more about our work in Zambia.
Fan-Making Station
With temperatures climbing in the mid-afternoon sun, our fan-making table offered some welcome relief. Children created their own paper fans while parents rested in the shade. This gave us the chance to explain how extreme heat affects children in rural Zambia, where many still learn in unsafe thatched shelters.
Learn Mancala
We also introduced visitors to Mancala, a traditional African strategy game. It attracted curious players of all ages, many of whom stayed for several rounds, discussing tactics and asking questions about where the game comes from.
Connecting through creativity
The day gave our staff and volunteers a rare opportunity to connect directly with the public in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. Many visitors were keen to hear about our work and what we’re fundraising for this year.
“Seeing all the different children engaging with the activities was lovely. We made a connection through creativity,” one volunteer reflected afterwards.
What we’re fundraising for
This year, we’re raising funds to build safe, permanent classrooms at Mankhanda Primary School in Zambia. Hundreds of children at the school still study in makeshift thatched shelters that offer little protection from heat, wind, or rain. Our goal is to provide a solid, dignified space to support their learning and wellbeing.
To find out more or to support the campaign, visit our Take Action page:
https://www.goodneighbours-uk.org/take-action
Thank you
We’re grateful to everyone who stopped by our stand, donated, joined an activity, or simply asked a question. The Dragon Boat Race was a great reminder that small moments of connection can help drive lasting change.
Marc Greene (Chief Executive
Canopi Foundation & Education Saves Lives) with Zarina Douglas-Sori, Chief Executive, Good Neighbours UK
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