Not heard of RAG yet? You should have. For those who don’t know, it is the fabulous society with members that wear those garishly bright-green T-Shirts, often with the collecting buckets in the Union – and so much more. And it’s all for charity. As one of the largest societies in the Leeds University Union, RAG organises a huge variety of events throughout the year in order to raise money for a host of different charities. Depending on what your taste is, there is something for everybody. Are you a cyclist? Bike to Berlin and Pedal to Prague are two among the excellent sponsored cycle rides that RAG organises. Fancy climbing a mountain? Reaching the peak of Kilimanjaro or Everest Base Camp is something many would love to cross off their bucket list, and Leeds RAG make it possible to do this while simultaneously giving to deserving causes.
We know that many people, whether due to their busy schedule or simply because they don’t feel like climbing a mountain, may not feel that they can fully engage with what RAG does. However, we have an opportunity that everyone and anyone can get involved in – that opportunity comes in the form of RAG week.
Kick-starting the week is a Launch Party taking place in Hidden Café on Monday 2nd November, running through from 10am until 5pm and boasting special appearances from several societies throughout the day. Among these will be Acapella showcasing only the best of their excellent harmonics, Comedy soc who will be attending to lighten everyone’s day, and Street Dance busting their moves. Also, and most importantly, LUU’s very own Baking Society will be there with all sorts of yummy treats on offer.
On Monday evening get your thinking caps on and your teams ready for a good old fashioned Pub Quiz starting in the Terrace at 7:30pm. The£3 entry fee all goes towards RAG’s Community Fund, a pot of money which is donated every year to small Leeds based charities.
Rolling on into Tuesday, Take Me Out is here to entertain with five charming young men all trying their hardest to score that ‘lighty’ from twenty scrutinising young women. Kick-off is at 7pm in Terrace, and be aware tickets for this event are limited – they will be sold at a stall in the Union foyer for £4 on Monday 2nd and Tuesday 3rd.
If reality style shows aren’t really your thing, RAG is also running an intriguing Secret Social on the Tuesday evening; I would tell you more, but it’s a secret… All you need to know is that a night of fun, friends, and cheap drinks is ahead of you in an exciting mystery city, and you’re meeting at Terrace at 8pm.
Other events taking place throughout the week include an Open Mic Night takeover in Terrace on Wednesday evening: the first acts commence at around 7:30 complete with free entry, good music, and cheap pints. RAG will also be attending Roundhay Park on Bonfire Night, armed with buckets and sporting hats, scarves, and gloves – make sure you keep some of your spare change and find us there.
Last but by no means least, RAG week is being sent off with a bang *sounds the Fruity horn*. Yep, it’s everyone’s favourite night, and this time it is all for charity – well, mostly. 200 tickets will be available from Monday 2nd in the RAG Charity Shop located in the lower floors of the Union and they will be the usual £4 – with £1 from each ticket dropping straight into the RAG Community Fund.
With so many fantastic events planned there is an opportunity for anyone and everyone to get involved and do their charitable deed of the year – it feels good, believe me. See you there.
Jess Herbert