Big-hearted Daniel to help the poor in Costa Rica (From Wirral Globe)

Big-hearted Daniel to help the poor in Costa Rica

10:20am Saturday 5th July 2008

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A TEENAGER from Birkenhead is proving that even those from the most difficult of backgrounds can be an inspiration to us all.

Daniel Rooke spent much of his school life being bullied and looking after his mum, and as a result he left education with no qualifications.

Although a prime candidate for getting into trouble, he has never been on the wrong side of the law, and in two weeks time will fly-out to Costa Rica to start a two-and-a-half month well-digging and community work programme as a volunteer.

After completing courses at youth charity Fairbridge, an organisation which gives young people from disadvantaged backgrounds a fairer chance to succeed in life, 17-year-old Daniel was put forward for a place on the Raleigh programme.

It will be the furthest he’s travelled in his life - until now, the most far flung place he’s been is Wales.

When asked why he wanted to go on the programme, he said: “Most of the people of Costa Rica have nothing, who wouldn’t want to go and help them?”

As part of the selection, Daniel had to attend a week-long selection camp to test his suitability and commitment.

During the week, his mum became ill, and despite being warned that leaving the camp could result in failing the selection, Daniel returned home to make sure she was ok.

But Raleigh International were so impressed with his performance up to that point he was selected for the project anyway.

Daniel has had to raise £3000 to attend the project, and as part of his efforts attended a golf event organised by Fairbridge at the Royal Liverpool Golf Club.

“Up to that day I always thought that people with a lot of money were toffs,” admitted Daniel. “But all those that I met on the day were genuinely nice.”

Further evidence of his challenging background comes when asked what he thinks he’ll miss most when he’s miles away from running water, electricity, and technology.

Instead of saying his iPod, mobile phone or play-station, Daniel, with no hesitation said; “My mum - I’ll be worried that she’s doing ok.”

Daniel still needs to raise a further £500. Anyone wanting to support him should contact the youth charity Fairbridge on 709 5881.

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