Congratulations to Joan, H2O's first Rank 'Gapper'

The Methodist Central Hall in London was recently the location of the Rank GAP Awards 2015. Joan Beaton from Hope 2 Oban, our first ever Rank Gapper, travelled to the event with Ewen Munro, not only to receive her award, but also to share a little of her GAP journey with the folk gathered. 

Joan shares some of her GAP journey with the gathering.

Joan received her award from Chris Dunning, who after twenty-something years as Director of Youth Projects with the Rank Foundation, will retire at the end of April. Chris has been a great friend and encourager to Hope 2 Oban over the past ten or so years, and we would like to say a great big thank you to Chris. It has been a privilege to work alongside you.

Joan receives her award from Chris Dunning

As many will know, Joan has continued with Hope 2 Oban on the Rank YAP (Youth Apprenticeship Programme) Scheme, alongside studying for a Youth Work Degree, again thanks to the Rank Foundation. So, lots of hard work still to come.
Well done Joan!

Conversation Cafe Number 2 and the Way Forward

Another encouraging turnout for Conversation Cafe number 2, with the gathering once more enjoying the delights of Oban Chocolate Company along with some pretty good chat around 'Relationships'. The time together concluded with an opportunity for feedback from folks who shared their opinions on the concept of Conversation Cafe and made suggestions around the future way forward for this initiative. All gathered showed a desire to continue with our gatherings, with content and location being two key points. With this in mind, the plan is to continue exploring options by hosting the next event at H2O's base, The Well. 

Preparations have begun to 'transform' The Well into a Conversation Cafe, with decor prep and cakes 'n' drinks prep well under way. Watch this space for Conversation Cafe updates and full reports on yumminess of cakes and coffee!

H2O - 2015 Lock-in - Amazing Fun!

The 2015 Hope 2 Oban Lock-in, number 11 by the way, took place with almost 170 OHS pupils accompanied by an amazing team of workers and volunteers. This through-the-night 10 hour extravaganza provided all with opportunities to run about like dafties, to take part in craft activities or to chill with their pals in the cinema and cafe area. The amazing Atlantis team provided pool, gym, dance and a plethora of hall sports. The partners, volunteers and S6 students involved provided invaluable support and chat to the enthusiastic S1 pupils. Local businesses provided the food and drink, the fuel required to survive through the early hours. A very big thank you to our volunteers, to all who provided sustenance and a special thank you to Atlantis Cafe for their welcome cooking support to provide the morning's hot rolls!

Roll on Lock-in number 12?? - Shhhh! We don't talk about that yet.