A Bradford man has told how his brothers’ battle with muscular dystrophy inspired a lifetime of volunteering.
Akbar Khan has spent almost 40 years changing lives at Bradford PHAB Club, based at the Mapa Community Centre in West Bowling.
From residential trips to weekly meet ups, Bradford PHAB Club has provided joy to children of all ages, abilities and backgrounds since 1972.
What started out as a haven for nine-year-old Akbar and his family has since become his legacy to the city.
He is now hoping to inspire the next generation to lead the club into a bright future.
Reflecting on his journey, he said: “Sadly when they passed away as their life span was only 16 years maximum, I didn’t really want to give up.
“I wanted to carry on volunteering, even as a young child, and help other kids with similar disabilities. I wanted to give something back. It just transpired from there.
“The amazing things they did for vulnerable families and kids with disabilities, it touched my heart really.
“We had an understanding of how difficult it was to cope. There wasn’t much around for people with disabilities. It was even harder for my mum and dad.”
Since joining in 1978, Akbar has worked his way up the ranks and helped bring joy to the lives of hundreds of children.
Bradford PHAB Club runs a popular summer activity programme, delivers regular food parcels to families in need and takes people abroad on residentials to America and Europe.
But to survive another 50 years, Akbar needs to find people who will inherit the club and boost fundraising efforts.
“We need to put PHAB Club on the map a little bit,” he said.
“We’re a wonderful PHAB family that’s welcoming and support kids. It’s a great opportunity for them to come and make new friends, have fun and try different activities they wouldn’t be able to do as they don’t have the opportunity or can’t afford it.
“We charge minimum £2 a session. Even then if you can’t afford it we’ll do it for nothing.
“We always cater activities to what the members want.
“We’re only a small registered charity but there’s nothing stopping us from becoming a larger charity.”
Any families interested in getting their children involved in Bradford PHAB Club’s activities should contact Akbar direct on 07850964864.
Bradford PHAB Club’s regular meeting night takes place between 7pm and 8.30pm on Wednesdays at MAPA Community Centre, Coates Street. Transport is also available.
People can also contact Akbar for sponsorships and requests to help the club’s volunteering and food parcel delivery efforts.
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