Volunteering with RAK - Ulrika’s experience
Over two years of volunteering with RAK
Ulrika has been volunteering for RAK for more than 2.5 years, supporting the organisation’s work and clients. She has offered her time and support by volunteering in RAK's advice service and supports clients with a wide range of practical needs, including completing forms for eVisas, Universal Credit claims, school applications, and GP registrations. Ulrika also collects sandwiches from Pret on Tuesdays every week and delivers them to the Community Hub on Wednesdays, helping ensure clients have access to food.
In addition to all of these efforts, one of the ways in which Ulrika became heavily involved with RAK was in the 2025 Dragon Boat Race.
The Dragon Boat Race - passing the paddle
Ulrika’s involvement in last year’s Dragon Boat Race came to be somewhat by accident. She was inspired to participate after hearing about it from her friends, and when her friend’s team became uncertain, she decided to form her own. In doing so, she helped RAK raise £2,131.35. In addition to raising this amazing funding for RAK, Ulrika also said that the race was fun and provided a positive team experience.
Talking about the experience of participating in last year’s Dragon Boat Race, Ulrika said, “I just thought, any chance to fundraise for RAK, I wanted to do it myself. Then the person whose boat I was going to join wasn’t sure whether they were doing it or not, and then I kind of thought, why don't I do it? Then it felt much more meaningful all of a sudden as well because I knew the money would go to a really good cause and something I really felt passionate about.”
For this year’s Dragon Boat Race, Ulrika has passed the paddle of organising the efforts to RAK’s staff member Charlotte, but will participate once more as a paddler. Regarding this year’s race, Ulrika said that she hopes to have fun, paddle a little faster than last time, and raise as much money as possible.
Why she keeps volunteering
When asked why she continues to volunteer for RAK after two years, Ulrika highlighted the people, noting the staff, the clients, and fellow volunteers.
“People are so lovely, both the staff and the clients and the other volunteers. I feel like such a tiny drip in the ocean, but the little thing I do is so well received and appreciated. It just feels good to be able to do something.”
Ulrika noted that volunteering at RAK is more important now than ever due to the geopolitical situation, as “the problem we're having with the geopolitical climate is still such a mess. It's not an issue that's going away, and we need to do everything we can to help vulnerable, displaced people.”
Team feedback
The team thoroughly enjoyed the Dragon Boat Race experience including training and team bonding exercises. "Everyone loved it! They felt RAK was a worthwhile cause and had fun during training, especially with the lovely summer evenings on the river.”
Recommendation for future involvement
Ulrika highly recommends everyone getting involved in similar events. "It helps you connect with more people at RAK and fosters a sense of being part of the team. Plus, it's rewarding to see how fundraising and team work can make a huge difference."
The 2026 Dragon Boat Race
RAK’s team, “The RAK Pack,” will take part in the Kingston Dragon Boat Race Festival on July 19th, 2026, from 9 am to 5 pm, at Canbury Gardens. RAK’s team is comprised of staff, volunteers, a RAK client, and members of the Kingston community.
The Kingston Dragon Boat Race Festival will not only feature boat racing, but also include live performances, food stalls, and family-friendly fun. RAK has set an ambitious fundraising goal of £10,000 this year, so any sponsorship, no matter the size, is welcomed and will make a difference!
You can donate to the team by clicking on this link, your first donation will be matched up to £250: https://communitiesfund.avivafoundation.org.uk/p/refugee-action-kingstons-campaign
Get involved with RAK
Ulrika's story is a reminder that volunteering doesn't need to look the same every year, and can take many forms. Whether leading from the front of the boat or paddling as part of the team, every contribution helps RAK continue its vital work serving refugees and people seeking asylum in Kingston.
Volunteer for RAK: visit our website for volunteering and other opportunities to get involved with RAK, www.refugeeactionkingston.org.uk. Learn how we support local volunteers and our community and contribute to our fundraising efforts. Together, let's make waves for a stronger, more connected Kingston and south west London!
Written by Maya Mehrara