This summer the All Aboard canal boat became the venue for Borscht Voyage; a fundraising event for victims of recent floods in the Kherson region of Ukraine.
The Union Canal runs through the heart of Edinburgh allowing those who venture through it the unique opportunity to discover a new side of the city. Its waters are home to many boats, amongst which is All Aboard, a boat which we run with Polwarth Parish Church. It aims to provide a welcoming community space for those who need it, a venue for fellow charities to take advantage of, and an opportunity for those who use our services to relax on the canal.
Zhenya was born in Ukraine and has lived in the UK for 14 years with 8 of those being in Edinburgh. She loves the community spirit and has been looking for ways to support and give back to her home country since the start of the war. Her office overlooks the Union Canal and she regularly spots the boats sailing down it. After being stunned by our yellow and blue boat, echoing the colours of the Ukrainian flag, she had an idea for her next fundraising venture.
Success on the seas
People Know How and Polwarth Parish Church offered Zhenya the use of facilities at both the church and canal boat to host a range of activities that entertained but also educated and celebrated Ukrainian history and culture. Guests were treated to dumpling-making classes, Ukrainian bingo, live music, and camouflage net weaving. To complement this, Maryna and a team of volunteers helped cater the event with a range of homemade Ukrainian food, including the event’s namesake; Borscht, a beetroot-based soup.
Despite windy conditions, the canal boat departed four times over the course of the day, showcasing the wonderful sights of the Union Canal and giving attendees a chance to speak and learn from our crew of volunteers who help run the boat. It was the highlight of the day for many. Raising £1,600 for those affected by the floods, events like Borscht Voyage put a spotlight on how collaboration and cooperation are crucial to running a successful fundraiser.
Borscht Voyage, like any of our boat trips or fundraising events, would not have been possible without volunteers. Their commitment and love of what they do allows for magical moments for everyone involved. The event came to fruition thanks to both our own All Aboard boat volunteers, and a dedicated team of Ukrainian volunteers including; Marjan Pokhylyy, Anastasiia Klimash and Maryna Zvarych. Their support created an afternoon to remember.
Like the sound of volunteering on a boat? You can join our team of All Aboard volunteers this summer, and gain unique experiences along the Union Canal.