At just seven years old, River from Trowbridge, England, has proven that age is no barrier to making a difference. In April, the determined young hiker summited Mount Snowdon, Wales’ tallest peak, raising an incredible £500 ($925) for The Salvation Army’s homelessness services—smashing his original £50 ($92) target.

“River didn’t like the thought of people without a bed or somewhere warm.” BECKY

Helping People in Need

River was motivated to hike and fundraise for The Salvation Army after a deeply personal connection with the organization. He felt immense pride when the school choir he sings in was invited to sing with the Salvation Army band last year for Remembrance Day in the town park—an experience that left him honoured to contribute to something meaningful.

Witnessing homelessness in London, England, further spurred his desire to help, leading him to research charities with his mother. The Salvation Army stood out not only for their impactful work but also because of his own positive experience with them.

“I wanted them to have help and somewhere safe to sleep,” River says.

“River didn’t like the thought of people without a bed or somewhere warm,” adds his mother, Becky. “He’s so excited to know the money he’s raised will help people in need.”

“Just Go for It”

Snowdon is a mountain in Snowdonia in North Wales. It has an elevation of 1,085 metres above sea level, which makes it both the highest mountain in Wales and the highest in the British Isles south of the Scottish Highlands.

Choosing the challenging Miner’s Track ascent and Pyg Track descent, River powered through fatigue with encouragement from fellow hikers, family and—crucially—KitKats. Upon reaching the summit, he threw his arms in the air, shouting, “It’s crazy, I’m at the top of Snowdon!”

Last year, River climbed Pen y Fan, South Wales’ highest peak, but Snowdon marked his first charity challenge. His determination has already sparked plans for future fundraisers, including conquering Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Scotland, and a swimming challenge.

“It feels great to help others,” he says.

“This experience has shown River that worthwhile things can be hard, but pushing through is rewarding,” Becky reflects. “No matter how young you are, you can achieve amazing things.”

River’s message to other children?

“You don’t have to climb a mountain—bake, bike or swim! Just go for it. You’ll feel happy knowing you’ve helped others.”

Photos: Rebecca Hill

Reprinted from salvationarmy.org.uk (The Salvation Army United Kingdom and Ireland Territory), April 23, 2025