Congratulations 2009 Mongol Ralliers!

Well done to everyone who took part in the 2009 Mongol Rally, what a fantastic event it was this year, with three unbeliavable launches from England, Spain and Italy and participation from over 500 teams from across the world.

Thank you to everyone who raised money for Mercy Corps, this years total currently stands at £120,000, which will be used to support various projects working with rural communities in Mongolia:

Photo: T Cook

Hovd District: Happiness and Community Park Programme

Residents in the Hovd district completely lacked any outside space to relax and socialise in because the communities only park was in a state of disrepair. With funds from the Mongol Rally, Mercy Corps has regenerated the park so that the whole community now has an outside green space to enjoy.

The park will also teach residents and children valuable skills in gardening and vegetable growing, whilst educating them on the importance of protecting nature.

Ulaangom District: Active movement- Healthy Elder’s Project

Photo: T Cook

In the district of Ulaangom, Mercy Corps has established a rehabilitation centre to improve the health of elderly community members and lengthen life expectancy, through health trainings and regular exercise programmes.

The centre employs retired doctors and nurses on a voluntary basis and approximately 2,200 elders are currently benefitting from it's services. It also provides a relaxed space for elderly community members to regularly meet and socialise with each other.

Ulaangom District: Information and training centre for children and youth

Photo: Mercy Corps

Alcohol abuse amongst young people in Mongolia is extremely high, so to help combat this problem Mercy Corps has established a training and information centre in Ulaangom, which provides leadership and vocational skills training for local youth.

Currently 20-30 young people go to the centre on a daily basis to use the computers and attend training classes that provide the essential skills needed to gain employment.

Arkhangai District: Unemployment Reduction

Photo: Mercy Corps

In the district of Arkhangai unemployment is rife with a huge number of people unable to support their families. Mercy Corps has started to address this by providing job training sessions for members of the community.

There are now 40 previously unemployed people who are able to generate their own income and for the first time they are earning enough money to live an independent life and provide for their families.

Thanks again for fundraising for Mercy Corps, your support really does make a difference!

If you would like to feature your Mongol Rally 09 adventure on our website please get in touch with our events coordinator Jennifer.