A STEVENSTON teenager is hoping to raise as much money as possible to realise her dream of volunteering abroad. 18-year-old Eilidh Olsen will travel to Costa Rica for a three month placement - but needs help to ensure she gets there.

The former Auchenharvie pupil is planning to take part in a women and children empowerment placement.

She explained: “I’ll be working to tackle issues such as child poverty, food poverty and violence against women and children. I will be helping to make a sustainable impact in the local community of Quepos.”

Travelling out on March 15, Eilidh’s target is £3,000 and she will be holding fundraisers in the lead up to her going. The Stevenston resident works for Centrestage and explained what her job is like.

She said: “I work such a diverse range of people using music and the arts to transform their lives.

“I also work heavily with many of Ayrshire’s communities.

“I predominantly work with special needs adults and elderly with dementia and I absolutely love it.”

Eilidh added: “Obviously I have all the usual nerves, but I am hoping to experience a completely different way of life with an open mind and do all I can to make a positive impact in the community I will be volunteering and living in.”

To find out more, visit Eilidh’s Facebook page by searching ‘Eilidh’s volunteering in Costa Rica’ or to donate, visit here.