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Barnardo’s Onegreenpaperclip challenge is very simple; starting with one green paperclip you will attempt to carry out a series of trades to obtain an item of higher value each time. You will then sell your final item and all the money you raise will go towards helping the vulnerable children Barnardo’s works with.

We have borrowed the concept from Kyle MacDonald who in 2005, using his blog page, went from the red paperclip holding his CV together to owning a house in only 14 trades.

How will Onegreenpaperclip work?

  • Working either individually or in small groups, (no more than 4), carry out a series of swaps attempting to acquire something more valuable each time
  • You can do as many swaps as you like in the time provided, the strategy is up to you!
  • Every time you make a swap you will need the person who you are swapping your item with to fill out a trade form
  • We will provide you with an authorisation letter so people know what you're doing and why (you may not get far without it).
  • Remember that it is a challenge, so set challenging but realistic deadlines for selling the final item.

What next?

Once you’ve registered your interest your lovely student programme officer will send out your paperclip, authorisation letter and trade form. Trading can commence as soon as you receive your paperclip and forms.

Please download the Onegreenpaperclip Information pack (PDF) for rules and further information.

Contact the Student Programme

Barnardo's Student Programme Office
Four Gables
Clarence Road
Horsforth
Leeds
LS18 4LB

Tel: 0113 393 3247

Email the Student Programme

Start small, think big, and have fun.
Kyle MacDonald