Over 30,000 bicyclists will soon take to the streets for the second annual Green Journey Throughout Vietnam to bring together communities and increase environmental awareness.
Green Journey 2009 is expected to have the participation of 200 students and around 30,000 Vietnamese and foreign volunteers. All will be biking across the country through 28 provinces and cities on their route from Hanoi to Can Tho, according to the organizer, the Institute for Tradition Development and Research (TaDRI).
This year’s route is a change from last year’s when bicyclists cycle from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City; it is hoped a change in route will allow participants to reach out for support from more people. As the riders travel through different communities, the message they hope to get out there is “Inspiring Youth” to work towards common goals and help the environment.
Along the way, Green Journey volunteers will conduct various activities to highlight their message, such as giving musical performances, handing out gifts to the poor, and help build houses for heroic mothers.
The Ambassador for Gender Equality, Dr. Le Thi Thuy said: “This is a particularly important time, where values and morals of young people are tested. By participating in the Journey, the students show their willingness in braving the winds and heat during summer time to do charity for the less fortunate people.”
The mood among the participants is ecstatic. Do Manh Trung, a student in his final year at the Vocational School for Machinery Manufacture Technology, voiced his enthusiasm: “The Journey mobilizes students on a large-scale and reaches out to target different groups in need. I have participated in various charitable activities, but so far I personally feel this is the most meaningful one of all.” The Journey has sparked high interest among student bodies of many universities and colleges.
The Journey will kick off in Ba Dinh Square on July 1. It is expected that the participants will be able to accomplish the road trip in 35 days.