Integr8 Mentor — Alan Whetherly
Alan is one of Through the Roof’s team of Integr8 mentors as part of our Influence project.
- Right Click and select ‘Save File As…’ to download an MP3 of Tim & Alan’s interview on Premier Radio - copyright of Torch Trust. First broadcasted on Premier Christian Radio.
He has competed in the 100m at the Paralympics and sprinted to a bronze medal at the European Athletics Championships for the Visually Impaired in 1981. His love for sport continued at Leeds University where Alan became the first blind person to graduate in the field of Leisure Studies and Recreation Management in 1989. His attendance at the University challenged tutors to adapt the curriculum without lowering standards. As a result of this involvement, Alan has forged a route, as a pioneer, for other disabled people to gain qualifications and Leeds has now gone on to become a nationally recognised leader in the area of inclusion and disability sport.
After his student days Alan took up the post of Recreation Officer in Kent and volunteered his time at Metro Blind Sports, moving on to become Leisure Officer at the RNIB for seven years. During his time at the RNIB he was one of the founder members of the London Sports Forum for Disabled People (LSF), becoming its Chair in 1993 – 1995. In the late 90s he was employed as Regional Manager for the English Federation of Disability Sport in the South East and South West regions. In 2001 Alan returned to LSF to work as the Visual Impairment Development Officer, and was the initiator of Blind Football at Arsenal FC, and also became a Christian during this time.
Alan has successfully run 14 Marathons, including London and New York, and is a trustee of Christian Arts charity, Epic Arts. In 2007 he travelled to Nepal and organised a sports activity day for 40 blind and partially sighted young people, giving his testimony at a church of 200 in Kathmandu.
Involved as a welcomer and in the children’s work at his church, Alan is committed to investing in young people and is willing to give up his time to support and mentor the next generation of leaders.
Alan says, “This project is a unique opportunity for me to share my spiritual, sporting and life experiences with young disabled people. Young people can achieve their goals and grow in confidence and self-esteem. It is important to be part of the walk to enable them to achieve their goals, grow spiritually and have a ministry.”
Integr8 is pleased to have Alan on the team. If you are interested in being mentored as part of the Influence project, contact us know.
