A TEAM of staff from Spectrum Housing Group have recently returned from Nepal where they helped build homes for those in need, and in doing so also raised over 26k.

The seven-strong Team Nepal were on an organised trip with the charity Reall, formerly Homeless International.

One of the team, Lisa Elford (based in Spectrum’s Exeter office), explains why she signed up: “I have an adventurous spirit and a giving nature, with a firm belief in empowering individuals to improve lifestyle and achieve a sustainable future.

"I felt that the Rooftop of the World Community Challenge would give me the opportunity to not only support the work of Reall but enable me to be a great ambassador for Spectrum Housing Group in the Devon area.

"I’ve travelled quite a bit in my lifetime and this was a great chance for me to go that extra mile and be involved in a really positive project that had an impact for a community.”

Supported by Spectrum, the team raised money throughout 2014 with various events to help the charity house those in need in Nepal – a country which has some of the poorest people on the planet.

Events included football sweepstake, cake sales and book donations. Norton Place residents in Exmouth held an auction fundraiser with many local companies donating the prizes.

In addition J&A Security, Ashtons Taxi’s and Fresha all supported with financial gifts, as did individual friends and family members.

There was also a talent show – Spectrum’s Got Talent; car boot sales; an auction event and a magic show with residents- you name it, they tried it!

Team Nepal joined 27 other housing professionals to help build homes in Pokhara as part of Lumanti’s Cliff side project.

Pauline Lewis from Reall said: “We are so grateful to Team Nepal for all their hard work throughout their fundraising and the Trek.

"Their dedication has meant that four Nepalese families will be able to complete their homes in just four months, as opposed to the typical six month building period.

"Their visit to the site in Pokhara has also resulted in the local municipal pledging further long-term support to our housing projects, which is fantastic news.”

Richard Hill, CEO of Spectrum housing Group said: “Staff at Spectrum are really proud of what Team Nepal have achieved.

"The work of Reall really fits in with the work that we do as a housing association in this country. Everyone deserves to have decent home.”

The challenge has raised over £140K.