A SALVATION Army stalwart who has helped turn around the lives of young people who fell victim to addiction, had criminal records and got involved in gang culture has written his life story.
And Richard John Campbell MBE, 78, will be officially launching ‘So What’s Wrong With Dreaming?’ at Droitwich Library from 10am to 2pm next Saturday, December 20.
Richard was born in Kidderminster on April 20, 1947, to a very poor working class family, in the area of Broad Street.
The area was well known for its reputation of poor housing and poverty.
He said: “I was ill prepared for school life which I found harsh and difficult to cope with, although I can’t remember missing many school days, so I did cope.
“My poor home life and the struggles with school life made me determined I was going to break out of the traditional pattern of future expectations that existed in such circumstances.”
Making the most of chances
Though he left school with no qualifications, he undertook an apprenticeship with a local well run building company and took all the advantages the opportunity offered.
From then he made the most of all the chances which came his way, kept the highest possible personal standards and learned as much as he could to build a life that would be worthwhile for him and all he would influence in the future.
He added: “I also discovered an ability to organise and persuade others to join me, in arranging many concerts and fundraising events for more than 50 years.”
The concerts benefited the Salvation Army and countless other charities.
Richard said: “Often those I approached for support, such as brass bands, choirs and many well-known TV Personalities, were willing to help – most of them waved their fees.”
Over the years, Richard was based in Kidderminster, Cradley Heath and now Droitwich Spa and has always found support and encouragement within those communities, local authorities and from charities.
A lifeline for young people
He changed his career midway through his working life and started teaching. It was then he worked with the young people to help them through their issues.
“I had the amazing fulfillment of being able to turn many of these youngsters round from the point of view of their own lack of self-worth and possible more positive future.
“Many kept in touch long enough for me to see them successful in their own right and living worthwhile lives.”
Richard was contacted to set up training centres across the Midlands and even nationally by different contractors involved in a range of major construction projects.
Honoured for his work
During this time, his charity work continued and, in The Queen’s 2021 New Year’s Honours, was made an MBE for 50 years for services to the community in the West Midlands.
Several people, including an MP who was the Deputy Minister of Education, at the time, encouraged him to write an account of his experiences.
And, now it is complete, Richard hopes he can go on encouraging others through his book.
He added: “I am of so grateful to so many who have given me their support over the years.”
The book is £10 per copy and can be pre-ordered for collection on the day of the book signing by calling Richard on 07387 308718.
